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After the feisty Shruti of Band Baaja Baaraat,watch out for Anushka Sharma playing the fiercely independent Simran in Patiala House.

After the feisty Shruti of Band Baaja Baaraat,watch out for Anushka Sharma playing the fiercely independent Simran in Patiala House.

What was it about Patiala House that attracted you?
The first thing I see when a film is offered to me is the script,then the director and thirdly my role. All these three things hits the bulls-eye with Patiala House.

A little about each please.
The script was honest,I wanted to work with Nikhil Advani,the director and I was excited about my role as the assertive and fiercely-independent Simran.

What is Nikhil Advanis forte as a director?
Nikhil is a fantastic director,and always knows what he is doing. The best thing about him is that he captures spontaneous moments really well.

Does it amuse you that it is your third film with a Punjabi backdrop,and have you learnt something from the experience?
I have said this before and stand by it that even though I play Punjabi roles,all the characters I have done so far are different. Actors play characters and not castes. Learning is always an on-going process and I grow with every film I do.

What is that one thing you liked about Akshay and one thing you didnt?
There are no negatives about Akshay,only positives. I have learnt a lot from him. He brings in a lot of experience with him but no airs. He is always on time,extremely professional and focussed and hardworking. Also,throughout the film he was in character of an aspiring fast pace-bowler,and didnt play any pranks like I had heard he does.

Are you a cricket buff,and will you be watching the World Cup and IPL matches?
I am not that big a cricket buff,but my family and friends enjoy the sport and are extremely passionate about it. I am surely looking forward to catching a few matches,specially when India is playing. And if it is playing in the finals then most definitely.

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Which team and which player would you root for?
India8230; India8230;.India.. I like Dhoni!

The film has an ensemble cast,who did you get along with the best?
I enjoyed working with everybody on the sets from Nikhil to Akshay Kumar,Rishiji,Dimpleji,everyone. But I really became close to the boy who is playing my 12-year-old kid brother in the film. We enjoyed each others company,joked around and did a lot of masti.

How has Band Baaja Baaraat furthered your career prospects?
Any person would be happy if his work is appreciated,so am I. After the success of my last film people have started taking notice of my good work and are appreciating me more. I still dont call myself a star,but I like it when people say Good job,or We loved you. Its a morale boost,and a motivation to work harder and do better work.

One director you would not mind going up to and saying you would love to work with him?
I have a wish-list of working with 15 directors,and this is a secret list. Laughs I am a little superstitious!