Ranaut reign

HB talks to Kangana about how she managed to stand her ground in Bollywood, the toughest land to grow in

I believe that attitude comes to a person with lot of fame and money, and I do not have so much to have an attitude

Kangana Ranaut, the fashionista of Bollywood, started her career with Mahesh Bhatt’s Gangster. The audience loved her, making Kangana one of the few actresses to gain a foothold in the industry without a “mentor”. She has since gone on to choose her roles well and has delivered hits such as Who Lamhe, Fashion, Once Upon A Time in Mumbai and Tanu Weds Manu. This year, her most awaited film ‘Rascals’ with Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan is set to hit the cinemas in October. We speak to the rather shy Kangana about the film and her personal life.

You have been selected as the brand ambassador for the Aamby Valley India Bridal Week 2011. How does it feel?

I am happy to be a part of the Aamby Valley India Bridal Week 2011 this year, since this event is centered on one of the most fashionable and celebrated occasions in India. We have some of India’s best talents presenting their collections here and I hope my association helps in taking Aamby Valley India Bridal Week 2011 to greater heights.

You’ve starred in two comedies earlier this year; and now Rascals. Are you turning to comedy, after doing some wonderful thrillers?

I don’t want to be typecast that I am fit only for these certain kind of roles. I want to try everything possible and when I am getting a chance, why should I not take it up. I have done every role to the best of my capacity, whether it is thrillers or comedy.  I’ve constantly redefined myself and tried as many roles as possible.

What is your character in Rascals?

Rascals revolves around two conmen Sanjay Dutt and Ajay Devgan. They fall in love with the same girl — that’s me — and they try different ricks to outwit each other and woo me. It’s a complete comedy film and it is worth seeing their tricks.

According to reports, all is not well between you and Sanjay Dutt?

If that is so, please ask him the question.

You did not even attend the music release of the film?

I had some prior commitments and I could not make it for the music launch.

Is it true that you demanded an additional Rs 10 lakh to complete the dubbing?

These are all baseless rumours and I don’t know who is starting them. The dubbing is complete and the film is all set to release now.

Is it true that you have been using your proximity to Sanjay and Manyatta to improve your stand in the industry?

I have told you, this is all not true. And if you want any further explanation, you can go and ask anyone else this question.

You generally refrain yourself from speaking to the media. Why?

I am a very lonely and a shy person. I don’t talk much and I prefer to just be by myself. That’s why I generally do not go out in the open and talk to the media.

So, do you have an attitude?

I believe that attitude comes to a person with lot of fame and money, and I do not have so much to have an attitude. It is just my nature to keep to myself and that’s why I do not talk to the media every now and then.

You are an outsider in the industry. Are you happy with how far you have come in five years?

I started my career in 2006 with ‘Gangster’, and from then on, I have just let work speak for myself. I have not required any godfather, and I am very happy and proud of myself. I have achieved a lot in these five years. I am very thankful to Maheshji, for having trust in me and offering me Gangster. I would like to thank all my directors and producers and the audience for appreciating my performance and giving me a place in the industry.

Are awards important to you?

Awards are another form of recognition of effort, so that feels nice. It feels really nice to take an award as we all work very hard on the films that we do. I would definitely feel honoured to accept an award, which is an appreciation of my hard work.

What has been the single most contributing factor for your success?

My sister. She’s like a rock. She supports me through everything.

Do you still keep in touch with Aditya Pancholi?

No. It ended. But I am sure that we are there for each other if we need any help.

Are you seeing anyone?

I think the media can answer that question better. The persistent rumours of my link-ups really trouble me. I have been linked to several actors like Dino Morea and Ajay Devgn and even Hollywood actor Gerard Butler, after I broke up with Adhyayan.

Are you in touch in Adhyayan?

No.

What is your idea of romance?

There has to be lots of respect in my relationship. And there should be lots of attraction. Also, my man should feel like I am the ultimate, hottest woman there is and I should feel that he is the hottest guy there is.

What you do when you’re not shooting?

I go to my dance guruji in Versova. Or I hit the gym, or do meditation and yoga.

Did you have to go on extra exercising and diet for sporting a bikini?

This was the first time that I am sporting a bikini. I definitely had some reservations earlier, as everyone around me would be in clothes. But I finally managed to give the shot. David sir was very clear that he did not want me to get super lean and lose all my curves. He specifically told me he wanted me to look like a woman and not like a little boy! Kalpesh, who’s been my trainer for a few years now, stopped cardio for me totally. I was doing some weights but mostly freehand exercises to enhance my curves and look feminine and sexy. For a week before the shoot, I avoided eating fried or sweet stuff.

A role you would love to play?

I would love to do a period film and play a character like Anarkali in Mughal-e-Azam.

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