Why the title Kick? Also tell us something about your role.
It is the story about a man who wants to have a kick out of everything he does. My character Shaina is basically a girl he comes across in his life and he changes her life completely. She is someone who is not used to his kind of lifestyle. I tried out about 300 dresses for my look.
How was it working with Sajid Nadiadwala?
Sajid is an amazing director. He is completely involved and dedicated. He is very specific about each character. He is very clear in his thoughts and that makes the job easy.
How is Salman Khan as a co- star?
It is very inspiring to work with him. Salman is someone you can learn so much from. He is very focussed on the sets and doesn't fool around when working. It's more about the scene and director. Salman is very passionate and dedicated about his work and that's what inspired me a lot.
What did you learn from him?
I love the fact that Salman gives so much to his career. He doesn't take the fact that he is a superstar for granted. He works equally hard. I have not seen anyone work like this on themselves or their characters, directors and co- stars. It was like a big eye- opener for me actually.
Salman recently compared you with Zeenat Aman.
I think he knows that I really love her. He said that I look like her to make me happy. I love Zeenat Aman. I think she is amazing. Even on the sets he used to tease me by calling me Zeenatji.' I think she was a fashion icon. I feel he has been very gracious with such a compliment.
Buzz was, you made him do yoga?
Salman is not into yoga, but he has amazing flexibility though. I have seen that because we used to work out at the same gym. I never made him do yoga. In fact, he made me do a lot of squat and workout exercises. But I would never advise Salman on fitness because he is so fit. He knows exactly what he is doing. He understands his body so well. He used to train me and Randeep ( Hooda). Salman and I are gym buddies. He is very disciplined and specific about his food intake and workout timings. There are some days when I used to feel so lazy, but then I thought, If Salman can make time for the gym then so can I.' I am into fitness, but it requires a lot of discipline. You have to challenge yourself and wake up early even before the call time. After working with Salman, I have learnt that you don't have choice so don't take it easy.
Has he taken you under his wings?
He has definitely given me a huge opportunity. Salman and Sajid (Nadiadwala) have changed my life by putting me in a movie like Kick because it's the biggest movie of my career. I owe them so much for doing that. If they are liking what they are seeing, it is because I have worked hard - not for myself but for them. There was some pressure in the beginning as I really didn't want to disappoint them.
Heard there's a kissing scene in Kick. True?
I wish there was a kiss! There is no kiss in the film.
Do you think Kick will be a turning point in your career?
Yeah, it will be on a much greater level. My career started with Aladin and after that, Murder 2 was my first hit. That was one turning point. Kick will not only be just a turning point but like a blessing. People will see me in a very different light and avatar. It will change things completely for me.
Did things really change after you bagged a film opposite Salman?
I got people's attention after I signed Kick. They were asking questions and started paying attention to me just because I signed a movie opposite Salman Khan. But now it's all in the hands of the audience. Kick's response will decide that for me.
How was the industry's approach before you signed Kick?
Their approach was very different. People used to think I am good for multistarrer films or I am just a glamorous actress or that I can play bold roles with ease. However, my character in Kick has been kept very simple and people will be in for a surprise.
Has Salman invited you for celebrating Eid with him?
I don't know. His Eid celebrations are a family affair. I am waiting for an invite. We are going to be in Dubai for promotions, so we will be celebrating it in Dubai.
Anupamaa
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