Rahul Dev is the Phoenix rising from the ashes.

This model was to turn actor with Mukul Anand's Dus. But because of the director's untimely demise, the project was shelved.

His next film -- Padam Kumar's Champion -- fared badly at the box office. But Rahul, with his killer looks and charm, was born to be noticed. And he was.

This debutante's performances won him numerous nominations -- Best newcomer and Best actor in a villainous role, at the Filmfare, Screen and Zee awards. He even bagged the prize at the Sony Awards in Sun City, Africa.

Fresh from the release of Asoka and his guest appearance in Indian, Rahul's sitting pretty. But he knows that his best is yet to come.

"If I wasn't an actor, I would've become a cricketer like Imran Khan!" he chuckles.

Here he lists his favourite actors.

I've seen all his films 20 times over. My favourites are Where Eagles Dare, Fistfull Of Dollars and The Good, The Bad, The Ugly. He is a classy act.

I loved his vulnerable act in The Line of Fire.

I love the underdog! He used to do 'D' Grade films before. He got an offer of one million dollars for his script -- Rocky. But he refused to sell it because he wanted to star in the film.

That required a lot of guts, especially for one who was still struggling; someone who had to provide for a wife and kids. I may never be able to do that! But he held his ground. The rest is history!

Arnold holds a masters degree in Business Administration from Howard. He can even boast of the best art collection in Hollywood.

Like Stallone, he had his first hit -- Conan, The Barbarian -- when he was 30. Besides, he's never been linked with anyone -- he has a clean slate. He doesn't drink or smoke. I'm a great fan.