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'I learnt a lot from Amitabh -- not just acting'
After the success of Emraan Hashmi's Jannat, Sonal Chauhan disappeared from the big screen. Now the actress (who is also a Philosophy student) is back in Bollywood with Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap, co-starring Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini.
Sonal speaks to Patcy N about the film and what it's like working with two such formidable co-stars.
Why this long gap after the success of Jannat? Did you miss Bollywood?
I did not miss Bollywood because I did not go anywhere. I was right here. I did a film with Owais Husain (son of the late M F Husain) and one film down south.
I was concentrating on my studies because of which I could not do many films. I want to study more so I will have to adjust it with my work. I think it was worth the wait because after the break, I got to do a film with Mr Bachchan, and so early in my career! It's a very big thing for me.
After you graduate, will you leave Bollywood and explore something else? What are you studying?
No, I will be very much here, as I am here to stay. There are some more films that I am looking at. I love being here but at the same time I feel that it is important for me to study. I am studying Philosophy and next year will be my final year.
'I was laughing hard throught the script narration'
How were you approached for the film?
I got a call from Puri (Jagannadh, director of the film) sir's secretary. I have seen his films. He knows the pulse of his audience very well and knows what will appeal to them. He makes entertaining films that everyone will watch. So I wanted to do the film, and when I found out that the film is with Mr Bachchan, I was very excited. The script too was very good.
What was your reaction when you first heard the title Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap?
The earlier title was just Bbuddah so I was not sure what the film would be about, but I thought the script was wonderful; I was laughing throughout and by the end of it I had tears in my eyes. It has every element -- comedy, action, romance, emotion and family drama. It is a full entertainment package. People will enjoy it.
How was the experience of working with Amitabh Bachchan?
I am very lucky to get to work with Mr Bachchan. I was a bit nervous during my first scene with him, but he was very helpful. I got to learn a lot from him and not just acting, but just by being around him you learn a lot. He is such a huge personality but he is so humble and nice to everyone. He respects everyone. I hope I have learnt a bit of acting from him and I hope I perform a bit better than before.
'Amitabh Bachchan looks dashing in the film'
I think he looks very nice and dashing. He carries it off really well and can give any young actor a run for his money.
You also worked with Hema Malini in this film. Tell us about that.
Hemaji is so beautiful. When I saw her for the first time, I just kept staring at her. I was in awe of her. In fact I told her not to feel awkward that I keep staring at her but I guess she is used to people like me.
What sort of character are you playing?
I play the character of a college girl who is jovial and fun loving. At the same time, she is a strong willed person. She knows what she wants, she respects her family a lot but at the same time she likes to take her own decisions. I could relate to the girl and so will others.
'I may be ready to do item numbers in two-three years'
How was the atmosphere on the sets?
It was a very good atmosphere on the sets, there was no tension. There was lots of fun. When Amitji is on the sets there is a lot of positive energy. Our film finished really fast. We started in March and we are already ready to release.
Raveena Tandon is doing an item song in the film. Do you plan to do an item number in the near future?
I don't want to do an item number now but may be after two or three years. When I have done lots of acting, after that, may be for fun...
Which is your favourite Amitabh dialogue?
Rishtey toh hum tumhare baap lagte hai, naam hai Shahenshah from Shahenshah.
What are your forthcoming films?
I have two films in hand but shooting has not yet begun.