Shriya looks for better stardom

Though Shriya paired opposite all big stars here in Tollwood and she did few Bollywood films, it is Rajinikanth’s Shivaji that bought her national fame. Shriya talks about her films, controversies and the rumors.

How does she look back on Sivaji?

It was such a high to be caught in a massive traffic jam in Chennai on my way to the film's premiere. Subsequently, people from Bhopal, Jaipur and Mumbai have come up to me and complimented me. Rajnikant sir is so cool. Although he is the biggest Asian star, he still travels in a small car, doesn't demand five-star accommodation and chats up the light-boys. And I'll never forget the lavish dance sequences. Sometimes even director Shankar couldn't recognise me. Once when I wore a blonde wig, my mother thought I was a foreigner.

On the controversy over the dress she wore for Sivaji's 175th day celebrations

It was a knee-length dress. We're a free country; I should be able to wear what I like unless it's indecent. Even the CM's daughter stood up for me. But if I've been disrespectful to any section of society, I apologise.

On Robot and Aishwarya Rai.

Really? I didn't know that but I'm a huge fan of Aishwarya's. I'm sure she'll be terrific. I'm also a fan of Shankar and if he were to offer me another film I'd grab it.

How did she get the international project The Other Side of the Line?

They were looking for a Bombay girl, thanks to Sivaji they'd heard of me. I had to attend a two-week workshop. My co-stars Anupam Kher and Jesse Metcalfe were a big help.

What's up in Bollywood?

I've been shooting for Apoorva Lakhia's Mission Istanbul. And there's Ek-The Power of One, a cute love story. I'm playing a hyper-Punjabi girl who talks more and thinks less. In some ways, she's like me.. (laughs) though I'm not so dumb.

On rumors that she is dating Jesse Metcalfe?

He's already into a serious relationship. He's a nice guy, I respect his friendship. It does become a bit difficult though.. I have to explain things to my parents who are simple, normal folk.

Is it adieu to the South then?

I have Mallanna with Vikram coming up. It's a lavish, largerthan-life movie. I wear no-makeup and have very short hair. Hey, north or south, I want to be an Indian star, remember?