Sonali Bendre: DIRECT DELIVERY

By Fuad Omar.

Tera Mera Saath Rahein is a heart warming tale of a couple who have a disabled brother, and coming from Mahesh Manjrekar, many are expecting fireworks from this subdued Diwali cracker. Of course the other firecracker is the film's heroine herself, Sonali Bendre who has sizzled on screen many a time ensuring the cash registers go ch-ching and she's all set to do it once more. In a film that will surely silence her detractors, and finally nail the coffin, that questions her talent, shut, the svelte Sonali is keen to speak about a film obviously close to her heart.

"It's a sensitive film that deals with Ajay's love for his disabled brother. It's a very real film, that has a lot of human emotions in it. I like the script and the character I am playing," she says of the role that was initially offered to Sushmita Sen, but fate had destined for Sonali.

What was it like working with Mahesh Manjrekar, who's fast becoming known for his versatility with films like Vaastav, Astitva and Jis Desh Mein Ganga Rehta Hai?
"I was already working with Mahesh and had heard most of his scripts. At that point, he even wanted me to do Ehsaas, but we couldn't work the dates out. Tera Mera was the film we were meant to do together and I really liked the role when he narrated it to me."

Did you have any apprehensions about stepping into a role first offered to Sushmita?
"I didn't even know she was supposed to do that role till I heard about it. But I'm sure Mahesh has sorted it out with her and that's why he came to me. I'm quite friendly with Sush so there's no problems at all."

Are you happy with the way your career is shaping up, you've finally begun getting overdue recognition for your performances, such as Love ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, Sarfarosh and now are doing this different film which must have been a challenge.

"I'm very happy with the way things are going, it's very much what I wanted. I'm looking forward to the next two years and am finally enjoying what I do and see it as a craft.

Do you find it irritating when people focus more on your off-screen romance and speculations surrounding it rather than your work? Does the constant media attention to your private life and the rumours get to you?
"I don't get irritated as such, but I do wonder why these people have nothing better to do than cook up stories about me. I mean, why would I want to hide the fact that I'm getting married? I have always been a very frank person, and never hidden anything. I've answered questions on my marriage so many times that even I'm sick of reading about it."

OK, in that case you'll hate me for asking, but for your UK fans, what's the final word on your marriage?
"I've said time and again, where marriage is concerned, I'm not ready for it now and that's that! For the last two years I've been hearing how I'm getting married and I'm not, so it's really stupid!"

So you're happy with where you're heading, any regrets?
"I admit I did make a lot of mistakes along the way. I trusted a lot of people I shouldn't have and this kind of sums up my career. I underestimated my own potential as most newcomers do and would get taken in by emotional talk that people would give me. I was extremely gullible at first. I regret doing a lot of films that I did, and today when I look back at those films, I can't believe I did them. My mistake was doing stupid work instead of waiting for good work. What I would have learnt by doing two films with good directors took me four years because I was working with stupid directors, but I guess it's just a way of learning and growing. Experience is definitely the best teacher."

You've done so much, learnt so much, what's left?
"I don't think I have done a lot.I want to do a lot more. Trust me, lots more!"

Aaaah, so your hunger is not yet satisfied, should we beware of the bewitching Bendre because she wants more?
"Of course I want more! That's human nature! But that doesn't mean I'm unhappy with what I'm getting. It's been a conscious move to cut down on certain kind of work. It's worked out exactly the way I wanted."

You sound all set for Diwali and all set for Tera Mera Saath Rahein, any apprehensions because it's a 'different' film, or as some may put it 'art' film?
There is nothing like an art film or a commercial film. It's either a good film or a bad film. So I don't believe in differentiating. Right here right now is a very interesting stage for Indian cinema today, and I'm proud to be here."

What's this we're hearing about you doing a TV show? The vibes are reaching London slowly but surely, tell us more, is it fun?
It sure is! Especially with all those kids! Their energy, their enthusiasm is contagious. It feels good to be part of a talent hunt show. It's called Kya Masti Kya Dhoom. I was excited when I first got the offer, because it was perfect as they only wanted me to work six days a month. I couldn't have spared any more time as I'm so busy with work, but that's fine because I'm a workaholic."

Speaking of work, what else have you got lined up?
I'm looking forward to a film produced by Sony, which is called Pyar Kiya Nahin Jaata, where I'm paired with some newcomers. It's a typical Mills and Boons kind of love story, again directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, and I've never done a full blown love story before. I'm sure things would have been different with my career if I had! Then there's Milan Luthria's Chori Chori with Ajay (Devgan) and Rani (Mukherji), which is very interesting, and there's another untitled project I'm working on."

What are you looking forward to most?
"Right now, I'm looking forward to the release of Tera Mera Saath Rahein!"

OK, before we wrap up what does love mean to you?
"It's something that one can't live without. It's an integral part of living. For me it's unconditional."

And the one question that irritates you the most?
"When are you getting married!"