Q. Let’s talk about your next film...
It’s called Veere Di Wedding which means ‘my bro’s wedding’.
Q. You mean like Harshvardhan’s wedding?
Ha ha. Not for a very long time, I am sure. No, ‘veere’ is like a buddy. This is a film about friends. We have so many ‘guy’ films like Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobaara. But so few ‘girl’ films. And I wanted to do something very light-hearted after Neerja.
Q. Why?
I felt that Neerja was too heavy. It was a cathartic experience for me but nerve-wracking. I needed a stressbuster. Just like I did Khubsoorat after Raanjhanaa. It’s important for my emotional equilibrium.
Q. What is this film about?
It’s about four friends and one of them is getting married. These women are going through a process of self-discovery and the film also explores relationships. It makes a statement on contemporary women, not an in-your-face message but a subliminal message. And if you have a daughter, this movie will have a lot for you to take home.
Q. Like what?
Today’s 20-something girls are conflicted by traditional and modern values. This film addresses issues that are relevant to society today. You maybe quite evolved, but there are certain thought processes that you can’t escape from because they’re formed by tradition and society. I am definitely very happy to be doing roles that re-define how women are portrayed in our films. I’ve been trying to do something different from the time I did Aisha. I’m happy there are strong parts being written for women. How long can we heroines continue to be showpieces?
Q. You have been experimenting with your characters in each film...
I don’t see the point in repeating roles. Anything that pushes me and my boundaries is welcome. Quite honestly, I feel my skills as an actor are very modest. I have a long way to go.
Q. It was almost like you were the hero in Khubsoorat, Dolly Ki Doli and Neerja...
I wouldn’t say that. But it’s fun getting characters and roles which give an opportunity to change the arc of the plot. I won’t mind doing a 15-minute role if my character makes a difference to the film. It’s just a coincidence that I’m getting full-fledged roles. I am very, very lucky, I guess.
Q. Was Kareena’s pregnancy written into the script in Veere De Wedding?
It was already a part of the script. We were aware of her pregnancy. As a matter of fact, we were waiting for her to get pregnant because that was part of the plot. I am very excited to work with Bebo. I’ve grown up in her company. She is one of my closest friends. Kareena, her sister Karisma, my sister Rhea and I are very close. So I am really looking forward to this.
