'Delhiites respect riches' - Jackie Shrof

Though most visitors to the Capital are effusive about the multiplexes, malls, smooth wide roads and delicious food, actor Jackie Shroff reveals that there are some things about the Capital that leave him cold.

"A visit to the Capital always leaves me disturbed. No one cares about you, the person. Delhiites respect riches. Just the reputation that you are well heeled is enough most of the time. All the good things of life will be showered on you even without you asking for it. If you are wealthy, shop in London or Paris, and are seen at the 'right places', you will never be short of 'friends'," he says.

"It is not as if such an elitist, shallow attitude is specific to Delhi but it is more concentrated here. The city is so politicised, so full of the snobs that anyone who does not match up to their expectations is considered as a country bumpkin! They will make you feel inferior. I don't like arrogant people. I feel we are all equal in the eyes of God. Who has given them the right to judge people," he continues. "Another thing I hate about Delhiites in particular is the way they grade people, not according to the pleasure of their company but according to their utility; can they be of use to him and, if so, to what extent?"

Jackie Shroff is a regular visitor to the Capital. "I come to Delhi quite often to attend events, endorse products, on a shoot, etc. The people here are crazy about Bollywood actors. They idolize celebrities and make them feel larger than life. That's not the reason why I attend such events. My attitude is: if people benefit from my presence and I am paid substantially, then what is the harm? It is a business agreement," says the actor.