Deepika Padukone makes a pretty pair with Imran Khan in their next film, Break Ke Baad. Directed by first-timer Danish Aslam, the film will release this Friday.
In a candid conversation, Deepika spoke freely about kissing Imran in the film, and why she would love to do a sports movie. Sonil Dedhia took notes.
How did Break Ke Baad happen?
(Producer) Kunal Kohli told me that he was doing a film and wanted me to read the script. I read it and enjoyed the character that I would have to play. So I said yes. We didn't have to bother about dates as everything fell into place.
I play Aaliya, who is very ambitious and independent. But she doesn't know how to balance that with her relationship. So she wants a break. She doesn't really believe in love or relationships or marriage. She wants to become an actress so she goes to Australia for higher studies. So the two lovers decide to part ways temporarily and take a break.
Would you relate to your character in real life?
Yes and no. Aaliya is very ambitious and wants to achieve a lot. I identify with that. But she is also someone who sacrifices her relationship, and doesn't believe in love or marriage. I don't even connect with the concept of taking a break.
'I think space is very important in a relationship'
Is your character inspired from Ranbir Kapoor, who's supposed to be as commitment phobic as Aaliya?
I think it is unfair to say that. Danish has written the script and I don't think he has taken any inspiration from Ranbir or any other person.
Yes, my character is commitment phobic but that doesn't mean people start comparing me with Ranbir just because I know him.
Were you uncomfortable at any time because of the kissing scene in the film?
No, not at all. When you are making a modern love story, some of these things are necessary. It was as easy or difficult like any other scene. The media has created a lot of hype because it's a kissing scene but when you watch the film, it's in context.
How was Imran Khan to work with?
He's very easy to work with, very supportive. If I had a problem while enacting a scene or saying a dialogue, he would help me out. We would discuss scenes and ideas and improvise shots. I have found a good friend in him.
What is your take on long distance relationships?
It's different for different people. It has been successful for some people and not, for others.
Personally, I think space is very important in a relationship. It is very important to respect each other's thoughts. Also, when you are in a relationship, certain things have to be given up by both.
'I don't want to be typecast as a heroine'
You are working with a debutant director here. Did you have apprehensions initially?
We can see many young and budding directors making films that are very different from what they were. Young directors are ready to take risks and experiment. They are very clear in what they want to make.
But this is not the first time I am working with a debutant director. I have worked with Vijay Lalwani (Karthik Calling Karthik) and now with Rohit Dhawan (Desi Boyz).
Most of your films have elements of romance. Don't you get bored of doing the same thing?
I don't mind it. When I select a script, I see to it that I am convinced of the role and that I can do justice to it. I am very comfortable in this genre. And the audience has accepted me in this role too.
But I don't want to be typecast as a heroine who does certain kind of cinema. That's why I'm experimenting with films like Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey.
You have had five releases this year -- Karthik Calling Karthik, Housefull, Lafangey Parindey, Break ke Baad and Khelein Hum Je Jaan Sey. Working very hard?
Well, I am not exhausted. When you are in a creative field, you can't get bored of what you're doing. The day I feel tired, I will slow down.
'I never ever thought of becoming an actor'
Do you ever miss having a career in sports?
No. I belong to a family who has been in this field (father Prakash Padukone is a badminton champion) but I am not passionate about it enough to want to make it my career. I realised that my heart was on modelling. But I never ever thought of becoming an actor. It was only in my second year in modelling that I started getting film offers and decided to give it a shot.
How much does your father help you in making decisions, and choosing films?
Most of my decisions are made after the consent of my parents. I always discuss work with them, whether it is acting, endorsements or modelling. My dad handles my finances. Today, I wouldn't have been here had my parents not supported me the way they have.
Would you like to be a part of a sports film?
Yes, definitely. Chak De! India and Lagaan were superhits, so people really enjoy this genre.
'I share a good relationship with Ranbir'
You mentioned on Koffee With Karan that you wanted to gift Ranbir a pack of condoms.
That was just a comment in good humour. The media has perceived it in a different manner. Ranbir has taken the comment lightly as well. I share a good relationship with Ranbir so I don't need to worry about it.
How comfortable are you with Sonam Kapoor?
I think the episode is proof that all the things written or talked about are rumours. Just because two people do not hang out with each other doesn't mean that they are not friends. Both of us are very busy, and work has always been my priority. We met after a long time to shoot this episode and we got along really well.
What next?
After Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey, I am shooting for Desi Boyz with John Abraham and Akshay Kumar. I am also doing Race 2.
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