bollywood actress neha dhupia

Courtesy: IndiaFM

Friday, May 19, 2006

You will definitely remember her as the girl who ignited your screens with movies like Qayamat, Julie and Garam Masala. This former Miss India was last seen in a special appearance in Harry Baweja's Teesri Aankh. The debacle of that film is behind. She strikes back with Priyadarshan's Chup Chup Ke, an entertainer for the whole family.

Meet Neha Dhupia, in an exclusive IndiaFM interview.

This is the second time you have working with Priyadarshan. What was the experience like this time? It was great, working with him again. It's also very flattering to know that a director of that caliber wants to repeat you in a film. He makes everyone look so good.

What is Chup Chup Ke about?
It is an out and out entertainer. When someone buys a ticket, they will get a complete package. This is a film that promises everything. From the grandfather to the grandson, the entire generation can sit together and watch it. It's a comedy of errors. At the same time, it is extremely entertaining.

What is your role?
I play a character named Meenakshi, a Gujarati girl. I have never done that before. It's even less glamorous than what I have done earlier. I am glad that this role was offered to me. I turn into Kareena's interpreter in the film. Some things go right whereas the others don't.

The film stars Shahid Kapur and Kareena Kapoor apart from Priyadarshan's favorites like Suneil Shetty, Paresh Rawal and Rajpal. So how was it to work with them?

I obviously learnt a lot from them. Every individual taught me something or the other. It's an experience I am going to take with me. More than that, it is a great film which is finally all set to release and I am looking forward to it.

There are so many stars in the film. Ever had the fear of getting over-shadowed?
Even though there are so many stars, the time and space was equally divided. When the film works, it will just benefit everyone.

What can you tell us about the music of the film?
I think it's really good. Himesh has composed the music. So far, he has not gone wrong with the music! He is very talented. My favorite song is Dil Vich. All of us got together to shoot it. It was one of those fun songs.

What is USP of the film?
I think it is the fact that this film has everything. It is catering to every genre. It's a safe bet with very good music.

Like you said, you are the interpreter in the film. So did you do any homework?
I didn't have to prepare much except for my dialogues. There were a lot of those because I had to talk for myself and Kareena. As far as Priyardarshan is concerned, he loves spontaneity. It's interesting to know that you are always on your toes. It was an educating experience.

Who do you think you have learnt from the most, in this film?
Considering that it is predominantly a comedy, I learnt a lot from Rajpal! I did a couple of scenes with Om Puri, who taught me a lot. Of course Kareena and Shahid were there too and they are so energetic. Shahid's energetic and Kareena is very professional. You need to pick up these bits. You have to know how to pick up the best from everyone.

Do you think comedy is more difficult than other genres?
Well, I would not say that it is so difficult. To bring it out onscreen, it requires good timing. When you do get the timing, you know whether or not you are doing it right. You see everyone on the sets. If they are laughing, you can be sure that the audience will enjoy it too.

Chup Chup Ke is releasing with Phir Hera Pheri, the prequel of which was made by Priyadarshan. What do you have to say about that?
I don't think I have anything to say to that. I would just like to wish the entire team of Phir Hera Pheri all the best, as well. Film making is such a science and nobody has the formula. If they did, then every film would be a hit and would be sold for a priceless amount. The fact is that nobody knows which film will work. You can only give your best and wait for the judgment of the audience.

Your last three releases be it Teesri Aankh, Garam Masala and Fight Club saw you in guest appearances. Why so?
I think they all just happened to come together. I did Teesri Aankh because of Harry Baweja. I liked the role and song that I had in Garam Masala. Then I got the opportunity to work for Chup Chup Ke. As far as Fight Club is concerned, Sohail Khan is a very good friend.

What are your forthcoming films?
I have a film called 1:40 Ki Last Local, with Abhay Deol which will come later this year. There is Delhi Heights with Jimmy Shergill.

You're also doing Sanjay Gupta's Dus Kahaniyan...
I am still in talks for that film. So I am not too sure. I am also going through some other interesting scripts. So I will keep you posted. Totally, I have three releases this year. I am looking forward to all them as they are all close to me.

Your current image has changed from your previous films like Sheesha and Julie.
It is a conscious effort. This is the only field which allows you to become a different person. If I don't take advantage of that, I would be foolish. I am just trying to do different things.