Brazilian hottie Gabriela Bertante

I AM CURIOUS ABOUT SALMAN

A former professional footballer, who is now Tollywood's latest item girl, Brazilian hottie Gabriela Bertante says she loves all things Indian

Rupam Jain

You are doing an item number for Puri Jagannadh's film "Devudu Chesina Manushulu" starring Ravi Teja and Ileana...
Yes, people will get to see me in three different looks. In one sequence, I will be seen sizzling the screen in a sari, in another, I will wear a lehenga, and I will be sporting an Indo-Western fusion look in the third. This song is different.
You seem to know a thing or two about Indian item numbers...
Yes, I do. While I do like the romantic Bollywood tracks, item numbers are sexy, sensual and have the 'wow' factor. I hope my number in Puri's film makes people go wow over and over again.
How did you bag this number? Did you know Puri?
No, I didn't. The day, my meeting with him was arranged in Mumbai, it was raining heavily and I couldn't step out. I thought I lost out on an opportunity, but a few weeks ago, he called me and told me he wants me to do an item number for his film. I'm very excited about it.
Item numbers seem to have become a stepping stone to a career in Indian films...
Yes, I agree that item numbers are an important part of Indian films now. This track will make people take notice of me. And I will move forward from there.
T'wood seems to have started a trend of roping in international models for item songs. How do you plan to stay ahead in this race?
For anything good to happen to you, I believe that it is important for you to be at the right place, at the right time and with the right person. I might not have been able to meet Puri in Mumbai, but it may not have been the right
time for me. When Puri called me later, everything fell into place. I think Puri is the right person to start my career with. I am comfortable with him. I don't know Hindi or Telugu, but I was never made to feel like I'm out of place. Now, I am learning the languages.
Is it true that Puri is launching you in his next film as an actress?
Yes, I am doing a film with him.
Are you playing the lead in it?
I am not sure. It is too early to speak about it. My character is not yet finalized. But I know Pawan Kalyan is starring in the film (laughs).
Would you want to do a Bollywood film also?
Yes, why not? I would love to do a Bollywood movie. I do keep getting offers, but again I want the 'right' script. (laughs).
As a Brazilian, what is your perception of Bollywood?
Let me correct you first. I was a Brazilian three years ago. Now I am more of an Indian (laughs). Bollywood is a big deal in Brazil. We look at it like it is something out of this world. Everyone knows Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan in Brazil. I had no idea I could be here someday. Having lived in India for three years (though I keep going back to Brazil to meet my family), I now know how much hard work goes into making Bollywood what it is. People here are so hardworking... it's amazing.
When you do a Bollywood film, who would you like to act with?
Salman Khan, undoubtedly. I like his attitude. I'm curious about him. I want to know him better and work with him. Have you always wanted to be an actor?
No. I had never thought I would be one. I was a professional football player in Brazil until three years ago. I hated makeup, I didn't even know how to use it. My parents wanted me to do something more in life apart from just playing football. So, I took up modeling. I do miss football at times, but I am enjoying this phase a little too much.
From football player to actor, how has your journey been?
Oh! I have done a lot of things. I have sold jewellery, clothes… Now, I feel I can do anything. Nothing is difficult for me.
It is quite important to have a godfather in the industry you are making your entry into. Do you have one?
At this stage, I can't say I have a godfather here. For me, God is my true godfather. I am a spiritual person and I believe in Him immensely.
How do you like India?
Like I said before, I feel more Indian than Brazilian now. People here are very warm and loving.
What do you think about Indian men?
Oh they are very nice. They respect women and are very traditional in their approach. Some men however, make you feel uncomfortable. And I understand why. I don't think women here in India are very open. But we in Brazil are. We are used to hugging. Now, when I do the same here, men think I want some favor out of them, that's just not correct.
Would you date an Indian man?
Why not? I like Indian men, I would love to date one.
rupam.jain@timesgroup.com

Gabriela Bertante