I love Victorian romances: Sonam

Throughout her schooling days in Singapore, Sonam Kapoor had her share of secret admirers.

The actress says she was always getting flowers and cards anonymously and like all teenagers, she loved the attention. She grew up like most young girls on a dose of Jane Austen's literature. "Emma was a special favourite even then," recalls the tall, lissome, gorgeous actress who is currently riding a wave of super success. As luck would have it, director Rajshree Ojha walked into Sonam's life with Aisha based on Emma. And the actress felt it was destiny.

Her father's banner, Anil Kapoor Film Company, and PVR Pictures Pvt Ltd turned her dream into a reality when they agreed to produce Aisha that is releasing today. "My sister Rhea slipped into the role of a producer most naturally. It's a fresh, youthful film about relationships, and it's my next release after the superhit I Hate Luv Storys. I'm glad dad didn't insist we make a formula love story."

Sonam says everything about Aisha is exciting. It has that silent, strong, handsome hero (in this case Abhay Deol) bringing a change in this wet-behind-the-ears girl. "What is interesting about the film is that it is a Victorian style romance, the kind I just love, but at the same time, it has a very contemporary feel. My fabulous wardrobe is a bonus."

The actress and Abhay got along famously. "He is such a confident, super actor and there was so much I learnt from him. You know, the character that Abhay plays in the film is the sort every woman will fall in love with. He is classy, extremely secure and he can sweep you off your feet." Advocating love stories to one and all, the actress says, "I've lost count of the number of times I've seen Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge. And somehow, I think there must be several hopeless romantics like me out there who get turned on with a good love story. I'm hoping Aisha also finds that kind of a loyal audience."

The incurable romantic, Sonam, who has put even her Hollywood offers on hold to concentrate on Aisha says, "The tall, dark, mysterious six-foot lover is someone every girl dreams of. Aisha is no different. Her story has that fairytale like quality that I'm sure will click."