Genelia Wants A Khan
Despite her big break in Bollywood last year with Jaane Tu... opposite Imran Khan, Genelia D’Souza hasn’t had another release as yet, and she is seen more in TV commercials than promos for forthcoming films with big banners.
While other actresses her age, who made their debut around the same time, are already doing their third and fourth films.
“What’s the definition of a big banner,” she asks. “I have worked with UTV, Studio 18, Aamir Khan Productions, done films in the South, and I have four releases this year. There’s one opposite Fardeen Khan, It’s My Life opposite Hurman Baweja, Hook Ya Crook with John Abraham and Yahoo with Shahid Kapoor. Isn’t that a lot?”
But, yes, she agrees, that you come into your own in Bollywood only when you act with the Khans. And that kind of film is eluding her currently. “Like every young girl, I too would like to work with the Khans, but each film has a script and only a suitable actor can play that role,” she admits.
Meanwhile, she’s in Mumbai on a break from the South, where the name Genelia D’Souza is bigger news than in Bollywood. BT caught her splashing around in the rain near the new Bandra-Worli Sealink. “It’s been five years since I played football in the rains. Do you know I was a national level football player in college,” she asks, surprising us.
I want to play Amitabh’s daughter: Sarah Khan
Winning audiences over with her girl-next-door looks, Sadhna in ‘Sapna Baabul Ka –Bidaai’, Sarah Khan has become the small screen’s sweetest lady. She talks about her journey from a small town to a glitzy world, her lucky break, her boyfriend and on her dream role with Amitabh Bachchan.
How did the show happen?
Oh! I never ever thought of being the part of the show. I had just completed my schooling and the production team approached me for the audition. I was surprised when I was offered the lead role in ‘Bidaai’. I was earlier selected Miss MP 2007 and did modeling for local channels in Madhya Pradesh. I have also worked as a host in DD Madhya Pradesh and other channels but this offer was hugely overwhelming. It’s not just the glamour but it’s very challenging as well.
Are you similar to the character you portray?
No, there is a different dimension to my personality than what’s on screen. The character Sadhna before her marriage in the serial is the real life Sarah Khan who lives in the present and who is always vivacious. I am not that quiet like Sadhna. I am extremely chirpy and naughty. I even have a boyfriend. I'm not that simple and submissive. And another refreshing contrast is that in real life I love wearing jeans, T-shirts and shorts. I cannot be wearing ethnic clothes and heavy jewellery all the time.
Can you recount your worst struggling phase?
I am very happy that the turning point in my career happened without much effort from my end. When it comes to struggle, I can say I've been lucky. There were no intense look tests or screen tests after the audition and I got a call to join the show just five days later. Leaving my parents for the first time is my only struggle so far. The only price I'm paying for my success is by staying away from them.
Can Sarah ever think of succumbing to social pressure to marry a man with special needs?
I can identify with the character on screen to a certain extent. I would definitely have done it. In the serial, I have sacrificed a lot for my family as an ideal daughter and even a wife. Though in my real life I am a total contrast to Sadhna of ‘Bidaai’, in an unfavourable situation, I will step into her shoes and do the same for my family. I will sacrifice my desires without any regrets to help my near and dear ones. I know it’s tough but I would have gone ahead if the matter revolved around my family. In a do-or-die situation I wouldn't have thought much and would have kept the just-go attitude.
What do you think has kept the show going?
The serial is doing well because of its simplicity and of course we act well (laughs). It has real emotions, thoughts, plus creativity that attracts viewers. It’s the story that counts and very captivating.
What is the visual image of a bride in your mind?
She must be committed to her partner and everything related to him. I give a lot of importance to family values. The bride must be supportive of her husband and not talk ill about the family. Ups and downs should be lived through together by the couple.
How do you and Parul Chauhan aka Ragini get along?
Apart from being co-stars we are best friends as well. We're both positive in our real as well as reel-life. We gel very well.
How important are looks for you?
I don’t say that looks are not important because it’s because of my looks that I got the break in the serial, but yes, it’s not everything. It’s God grace, blessings and love of well-wishers that matter. One’s dedication definitely helps him/her to prove their mettle. Besides, these there is luck and talent that always helps you achieve a lot.
How was it winning the favorite Patni award at the Star Parivaar Awards?
Winning ‘Best Patni’ award doesn’t mean that I have stood out the best. There are many actors who performed better than me. Again, I think it’s luck as well as hard work that fetched me results. The recognition has also boosted my confidence.
Who is your favorite actor and idol?
I want to create my own identity and name. I want my fans to know me as ‘Sarah Khan’. My favorite actor is undoubtedly Amitabh Bachchan. It’s my dream to work with him someday. I would love to play his daughter or be associated with him in any venture.
How do you deal with the work schedule? Is it too hectic?
Acting was always my ultimate goal. So I don’t mind working endlessly and giving hundred percent to my work. It’s very hectic but I still love my work and am passionate about it. I love to shoot and never get bored!
What do you do after pack up?
After long shooting shifts, when the unit packs-up, I spend two to three hours with my boyfriend, Ali Merchant. I want to see Ali at least once every day. I miss him while he is away but then that’s how it works between us. Despite my my packed schedule, I find time to meet him.
Hobbies and interests apart from acting?
I can’t live without dancing. Dance is an important part of my life. Dancing is my obsession, zeal and craze which I just can’t do without. I’ll try my luck in another season of Jhalak Dikhlaja. Amidst working, shooting and dancing my other indulgence is cooking. I really cook well. Ali loves ‘mere haath ka khana’ and it’s like a festival for him when I cook. He keeps licking his fingers when he eats my cooking. And not only Ali, once I impressed his father preparing butter-chicken for him which he praised a lot.
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