Bold & beautiful

Simple, straight and sassy. NEHA DHUPIA,  the actress who started her tinsel town career being known as a ‘bikini babe’ and unapologetically went on to do films like Julie and Sheesha, says she is happy with her fair share on screen. “I have learnt to be content and I am pretty delighted with the kind of work I am doing,” she says in an interview with Diana Sahu when in the city to participate in an event.

Tell us about the purpose of your visit to the city?

I am here for to participate in the Blender’s Pride Magical Night of Unique Fashion, hosted by acclaimed designers Nandita Mahtani and Nandita Basu. The objective of this tour is to get closer to the consumers and engage them by sharing the Blenders Pride experience. Blender’s Pride Magical Nights is a six-city fashion tour that defines style by leading a series of fashion events across the country.

Is this your first visit to Odisha?

No. I had come here when I was a kid and had been to the Puri Jagannath temple. I have even tasted Odia food a number of times in Mumbai and New Delhi. As far as Bhubaneswar is concerned, I have a liking for this place for its peaceful environs and people.

Bollywood projects?

I am holding myself back now and doing only interesting projects. I feel in our industry you get typecast instantly. When I started off I was offered other roles as well, but I chose the ones I did and got stuck with one image, which was hard to break. That was a mistake and I’ve learnt from that. Since then I have definitely become choosy.

Do you regret doing Julie?

Not at all. My role in Julie was a strong character but in the course of publicity of the film, of 60 scenes, three bold ones were highlighted while the audience were expected to see the rest in theatres. It was something not in my control. Still I stand by Julie, for, without her I wouldn’t have done other characters that you find me doing today.

What next?

My film Maximum, opposite Sonu Sood, released recently and I will soon share screen space with Emraan Hashmi in Karan Johar’s next home production, to be directed by Rensil D’Silva. This film will also feature Sanjay Dutt, Kangana Ranuat, Randeep Hooda and few others.

As a model, what would you advise girls who want to tread your path?

Love your body and be confident about it. You don’t have to lose weight because everybody is thin. A full-figure is a priced possession. Embrace your curves. Wear clothes that are fitted and form flattering. I love wearing colour and black. The outfits you wear have to make you feel sexy and good. Also, be independent, emotionally and financially.