• You were just two-films-old when you decided to leave. What could possibly be the pressures at such a preliminary stage of your career?
(Laughs) The pressures were very personal. It was something that didn't work out between someone and me. I came to films for a lark. A lot of people confused me for the strong character, Geeta, that I played in Hazaaron… I was burdened with expectations. But I was this young girl who liked other things in life too.
• What has changed so drastically now? In fact there is even more competition and the race is only getting tougher.
What's changed is my mind, nothing much otherwise. Now, I'm mentally prepared for the challenges that'll come my way. As for the competition- I love it. I'm ready for the battle.
• Did you miss working in films while you were away?
Yes! I missed it a lot. And I figured that films are the only thing that can give me satisfaction.
• Did your quitting films have more to do with your husband, Jyoti's decision than yours?
That's been a complete mystery. Jyoti was blamed for my indecisiveness and I never bothered clearing the air. I just vanished. But he really had nothing to do with my leaving films.
• And what about coming back?
Again, coming back is my decision alone. He completely supported me and said, 'Do what makes you happy, that's what really matters.'
• So are you here for good?
I've just done two films, so I can't say I've done it all.
• After Hazaaron…, many filmmakers wanted to sign you. What were the offers you refused while you were away?
I wouldn't want to take names but I did refuse many offers. I was mostly offered serious roles. Filmmakers like Vishal Bharadwaj and Ketan Mehta wanted me in their films. Unfortunately, I had to turn down many offers and it was unpleasant regardless of the reason why I did it. But thankfully, I'm back in the industry and still have filmmakers who want to work with me.
• You're playing Chandramukhi, a character that was immortalised by actresses like Madhuri Dixit and Vaijanthimala, who were fabulous dancers as well. Are you nervous?
My character is not that of a weak woman who is in love with Devdas. Chandramukhi in Aur Devdas is a seductress, a high-class socialite. She's unlike the earlier Chandramukhis. Then she ends up falling for a guy who's an aspiring politician. Aur Devdas is an adaptation of the original Devdas in a political scenario. But I have no dance sequence in the film. I don't know when I'll get to dance!
• And run around trees?
I really want to run around trees. I'm sure I'll do a great job with that!
• Are you open to kissing or lovemaking scenes?
I am not comfortable as there's a certain sensibility one has to keep in mind while doing certain scenes. No I don't think I'm open to kissing scenes.
• How has married life been?
Married life has always been great. It was nice to travel with Jyoti as I think it helped him when he was having a bit of a rough time, professionally.
• There are rumours that your marriage on the rocks. Is it true?
I am back even after having a child. In a way, being a mother is reassuring for a woman but that's certainly not the end of the world.
• You haven't answered the question. Is your marriage on the rocks?
There's absolutely no problem as far as my marriage is concerned. I'm happily married, but I had to find happiness through my talent too.
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