John's gal, but Saif's pal?

It seems Bipasha Basu was in something of a confessional mood when she admitted that she could be attracted to Saif Ali Khan. Recently, when she appeared on Koffee With Karan along with boyfriend John Abraham, Karan Johar asked her, 'If John wasn't in your life, which Bollywood actor would you be attracted to?', Bips declared that it would be Saif. Now, it is being learnt that there's more to that casually made statement than what meets the eye.

The buzz is that Bips and Saif, who have spent a considerable amount of time together shooting for Abbas-Mustan's Race in South Africa and Dubai, have now become extremely close.

Common interests

A source from the industry says, "During the schedule of Race in Dubai, Bipasha and Saif become good friends. Ever since they've returned, Bipasha's car has often been spotted parked in Saif's compound. These late-night visits have sparked a lot of speculation."

Says an industry source, "It was bound to happen. Bipasha has been through a lot in the last few years (rumours of John's affairs with several co-stars) and so has Saif. Both are lively, intelligent people, so it's natural that sparks are flying between them. While in Dubai, they would often go out together."

In fact, friends of both actors are hoping that this will develop into something serious. "Bips is just the right kind of mature influence Saif needs. He needs emotional security. It's just that Bipasha is dating John and Saif has two kids he is devoted to, that's why both are being cautious and taking their time," adds the source.

Home truths

Naturally, Bipasha stresses that there's nothing more to this than friendship. "Saif is a very close friend of mine and I am not going to allow rumours to affect out friendship. I won't justify my relationship with him because of some gossipmongers. I certainly won't avoid Saif because of that," she says.

On prodding, she admits she's very fond of Saif. "We get along very well. We even go out for dinner together and John knows about it. What's the big deal? Saif is an easy person to get along with. We a have a similar mindset."

About her visits to Saif's house, she says, "I've gone to his house many times. What's wrong with that?"

Why the fuss?

Recently Bipasha attended a fashion show for designer Rocky S with former boyfriend Dino Morea too. She says, "I went with Dino because John isn't in town. Why can't people understand that I am in a relationship with John? I am not single. These stories can affect relationships."