Deepika opens up about ex-flame Ranbir Kapoor

Creating a strong foothold in the industry, Deepika Padukone is standing tall with some biggies in hand. From the glamorous actress of ‘Om Shaanti Om’ to the de-glam freedom fighter in ‘Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se’, Deepika has been appreciated in every role she took up. Some catfights and some tiffs following her breakup Ranbir Kapoor have kept this diva in the news. Deepika talks about her friends in Bollywood, working with Amitabh Bachchan and her future projects.

On 'Aarakshan'

My character in the film is a strong one, who believes that will power is important to bring about a change in the society. I play the role of a girl who is torn between the love of her father and the love of her life. In ‘Aarakshan’, I am the only female actor, but have never felt that it is a male dominated film.

On working with Amitabh Bachchan

I am very lucky to have got the opportunity to work with Amitabh Bachchan. It is like a dream come true for me. He is extremely radiant and punctual; he never comes late and revises his script at least five times. Despite being a senior he will listen to you. He can be compared to a magnet as he attracts everyone. His presence enhances your energy. He is undoubtedly the super star.

On working with Saif Ali Khan

After seeing us together in ‘Love Aaj Kaj’, the audience has really liked our pair. For now we are awaiting the release of ‘Aarakshan’. Next on I am working with Saif in ‘Cocktail’ and ‘Race’. I feel very comfortable to work with Saif, we share a good rapport. As an actor, Saif is very clear and knows his job well. Before doing a scene the two of us work on it and share our opinions. This makes it easy for us to perform the scene efficiently in front of the camera as well.

On memorable moments in Bhopal

Everyday of the shoot was a memorable one. The city of Bhopal was very new to me. The people there are so calm and humble. After the shoot we used to go for walks. People would acknowledge your presence, smile at you but never misbehave.

On friends in Bollywood

Frankly speaking, while working on the sets, we all are friends be it male or female actors. But we don’t have time to visit each other owing to our busy schedules. I have met Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif in parties. Also Kareena Kapoor used to come on the sets, so I have met her and have spoken to her a couple of times. As such I have not been hanging around with any star. But this does not mean that we are enemies, we are just like other common people. We too have had friends before joining the industry, being humans no one will share their secrets with others unless they are very close.

On working with Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir and I are thorough professionals, so why will we not work together? As per my knowledge, Ayaan Mukherjee is still writing the script. I believe that the script and my character have to be strong enough.

On her dream role

I never had any dream role as such. Having been bestowed upon a chance to be able to perform with brilliant actors is like more than a dream come true for me. I am happy with my platter at the moment

On future projects

I have quite a few films in my kitty which may go on till two years at least. For now I am waiting for Rajnikant to be back on his feet so we can start shooting for ‘Rana’. My schedule is free for Rajnikant but his health needs to be in good shape. Next on I will be working in ‘Cocktail’, ‘Race’ and ‘Desi Boyz’. I am looking forward to shooting for all these films.