Were you surprised to get the Rajiv Gandhi Award for your contribution to the field of entertainment?
I definitely was! But the award was also for my involvement with various social issues like AIDS awareness.

What was the feeling like?
Rajiv Gandhi has always been my icon and it was wonderful to receive an award in his name.

You’ve worked with Govinda in three films, what is it about him that we don’t know?
It is true that he is temperamental, but when he gets working he’s the most brilliant actor in terms of spontaneity!

How did you develop that amazing comic timing?
Thanks to David Dhawan and Partner. Unless you give a hit with David you cannot be called a good comedian.

Have comedy films changed things for you?
Definitely! Previously I was considered glamorous and standoffish. Now the audiences have started connecting to me.

What do you consider when you sign a film?
The people! No amount of money can motivate me to work with people I don’t want to.

What makes you smile these days?
That I learnt how to swim for my film Blue! It has helped me get over my fear of water.

What’s making you anxious?
The comparisons between me and Marisa Tomei when people see Banda Yeh Bindas Hai. I play the role for which she won the Oscar!

The question you are asked most often these days?
Are you single?

Are you?
I’d like to skip that one!