shilpa's interview with the Times

OVER AND DONE WITH: Shilpa after 'Celebrity Big Brother'

In her first televised interview post winning 'Celebrity Big Brother', Shilpa Shetty has said that she wants to put an end to the entire racism row.

The Bollywood actress gave her most detailed television interview on Thursday, speaking about allegations of racism that sparked a global debate, to Sky News in Britain.

Interview excerpts (As told to Kay Burley)

Q: What was life like for you in the Big Brother House?

A: It was difficult but not impossible. I just felt I needed to be conscious of my responsibility all the time. I can say with a lot of pride, that because I am an Indian, I was able to handle all those difficult situations...And I think, all's well that ends well.

Q: The Bollywood filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, in Mumbai's paper said: 'I believe no one can insult you without your permission. Shilpa Shetty has paid the price for trying desperately to seek the approval of the west.'

A: If he feels that way, then I will not say anything because I respect him a lot. I went on this programme (Celebrity Big Brother), as a responsible Indian citizen. I had never thought that such things could happen to me (referring to the alleged racial insults) So if he says that 'I let myself open to be treated like that', well it doesn't happen that way. Some things just happen. And what happened in my favour was that the whole Asian community, not just in India, but in the whole world, got together and supported me. And there is nothing that could make me prouder, no greater compliment I could receive. So I don't really need to defend myself as far as this comment goes.

Q: Given what you know now, would you do the Big Brother experience again?
A: "No... (laughs) no, because I have neither the time nor the patience. So I don't think I could do something like this again, it's just too taxing...But it was a great opportunity. Big Brother was one of the most-watched television shows in the UK. And for an Indian actor to be on something like that was huge. It was just great timing.