Bhansali gives Rani a role as birthday p

Bhansali, who gave Rani one of her most acclaimed performances in "Black", offered her the role on her birthday March 21.

The actress is ecstatic.

"The best gift came from Sanjay Bhansali. He has given me a role in his new film 'Saawariya'. Last year he had given me 'Black'. I hope I'll continue to be a part of everything he does even it is just as an assistant on his set or something. He came to Yash Raj Studios. To see him prepare for 'Saawariya' takes me back to 'Black'," Rani told IANS.

"And then there were other gifts... My mom gave me a typical Bong sone ka kadaa (gold bangle)," she added.

"Actually I shot till 11.30 p.m. with Karan (Johar), Shah Rukh (Khan) and Amit uncle. It's such a coincidence. But I seem to be shooting with Karan for all my birthdays.

"During 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' I did that shot where I come as a ghost during my birthday. Then I was again with Karan for K3G ('Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham') on my birthday.

"This year after we wrapped up 'Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna' for the day, I brought in my birthday with my parents, who have been staying at the Holiday Inn since our house is being renovated. We were all there - my brother, bhabhi, parents and naani who came all the way from Kolkata. I cut a cake and brought in my birthday. There's no better way for me to spend my birthday than being with my family.

"Then I came back in the night and spent the whole time answering phone calls and messages for my birthday - don't ask me how many there were. I am amazed at how many people love me and wish me well. I am so touched by the whole experience. I hope I continue being loved for many, many birthdays to come."

The thought of having shot with Amitabh during her birthday brings a smile on her face.

"It was almost like a pre-birthday gift. To have Amit uncle back on the sets with us... it was such a wonderful moment for all of us," said Rani.

Rani's birthday thoughts?

"I want to remain the way I have always been. I am a family girl. I want to continue looking after my parents to the best of my ability. I want to bring a smile to as many faces as possible.

"The STAR channel gave me a truly wonderful birthday gift. They took me to celebrate my birthday with the deaf and the blind. The amount of love I got from these people on my birthday was unbelievable. They made it my most memorable birthday ever."

"And listen," she shoots off as a parting shot, "My most cuddly birthday gift is yet to come. I can hardly wait to hold my bhabhi's baby in my arms. No feeling in the world can equal the touch of a baby in your hands."