Bebo's gung-ho!

Her surname precedes her, so does her reputation. Kareena Kapoor has been escorted into the industry by a famous heritage and temperament.

Says she, "I hate being called a star. I'd rather be an actress." She declares, "I'm here to work with the best. Second-best simply won't do."

Brave words but she just might have the mettle to match her mouth.

Excerpts from an interview with Latika Sidana:

Tell us something about the film and your role in it.

It is Kajol's film because she has a pivotal role to play in the film. She marries Rahul and then convinces his father about their love and makes him accept them. She is such a fabulous actress.

My role is very different from the ones I have done so far. Karan wanted some one who would look sensuous and glamourous. I told him I would work very hard on my dancing. No one should know I can't dance well. I did work hard.

I can't talk much about it. I play Kajol's sister in the film. I have been given a very different look in the film. Manish has really done a wonderful job. It is something never seen on screen before.

We heard you were the life on the sets. How was it working with a star cast such as this?

Considering three superstars were working together, nobody had any hangups. Everyone knew their job.

Shooting for the film was amazing. In fact, Karan even got dancers from London for a song to give it a feel of a discotheque in India. We had a blast.

About being the life on the sets I have always been childish, playing around. I hurt like everybody does. But I put up a false show of bravado. I am like a coconut -- hard from the outside but soft on the inside.

Who is your inspiration?

My sister Karisma. She is my strength and my weakness. I have seen her slog it out in the studios. She owes her success to her hard work and dedication. I draw my inspiration from her and my mom.

You have quite a reputation, would you like to comment on that?

My life's tragedy is that I am the most misunderstood person in the industry. I am really a nice sweet girl; I have been this way since I was a child. But the media has painted me out to be a little monster.

Right now you have no competition, right?

Correction. I have lots of competition. Esha Deol is going to be a major star. She is stunning, a lovely person and very beautiful. Everybody better look out for Esha.

What is your ambition?

I would like to be a director some day.