Sex, Shah Rukh and scripts too sell: Neha Dhupia

Known for famously saying that only sex and Shah Rukh sell in Bollywood, she now says there are positive changes happening and says it is an exciting time for industry folks. “Sex, Shah Rukh and Salman sell, but so do good scripts. I myself have been part of a particular kind of good cinema, and I want to continue to be a part of many more such films,” Neha says.

She has a film, titled Ikkis Topon Ki Salaami, which will be launched next week. “It’s a satire that’s like Phas Gaye Re Obama, with Anupam Kher and an ensemble cast. It is a bit of an independent film like those I’ve been standing for of late. Other films that I’m very excited to be a part of are Ungli, which will release on November 21 and Santa and Banta with Vir Das and Boman Irani.”

Neha has been a part of Telugu films, but never worked in Kollywood but says that it was just because of bad timing that nothing materialised. “I love the cinema here. When I had the opportunity to work here, I just didn’t have the time, and when I did get the time, the offers didn’t come in. If I get a chance to work here I would still love to,” she says.

Visiting Chennai after a really long time she adds, “It’s changed,” she notes, “starting right from the airport, the roads to even mediapersons. Food is always special here and I love the idlis, filter coffee and lemon rice. I’m no stranger to south India as I was born and raised in Kerala. People from South India are great as their temperament is just so much better compared to people from the rest of the world. They’re always smiling and cool-headed. It’s wonderful to be back here.”