We hear that you’re very excited about the release of Chup Chup Ke, out on June 9?

Like always, Priyan’s given me a very different character to play this time – I play a girl who can’t apparently talk and it’s a romantic comedy with Shahid and me.

Shahid Kapoor mentioned that Shab E Firaq was his favourite track from Chup Chup Ke. What significance does Shab E Firaq have in the film?

It is very important in the sense that it is the promotional song for the film. Ken Ghosh has been specially roped in to direct this number. It has a very ethereal and celestial feel to it, as throughout the song we are underwater. I’m sure you’ve seen it on television!

What is your rapport with Priyadarshan?
More than a director Priyadarshan is like family to me. We share a good rapport and I am very familiar and comfortable with his style of working.

What about the chemistry with Shahid Kapoor?
I know after Fida everyone is questioning things. But in that film my character was negative. In Chup Chup Ke, where I play a deaf and dumb girl, Shahid and I have some very quaint romantic scenes, which I am sure the audiences will love.

Tell us about the music of Chup Chup Ke, which is doing really well on the charts!
Himesh (Reshammiya) has done a great job again! The film has some brilliant numbers, which explains why it’s on the charts!

And how romantic is Shahid in real life?
Oh, for him romance is what was portrayed in the film Titanic. Gentle, exquisite and unconditional. As for me, I find his always being there for me very romantic!

How has Shahid influenced you as a person?
I was always very hyper, and easily excitable. But Shahid’s presence has a very calming effect on me. He is a very simple and practical person and has taught me to live life in a very positive, simple and down-to-earth manner. If I have matured over these three years it is because of Shahid.

What is your reason for accepting an item number in Farhan Akhtar’s forthcoming mega release, Don?
Why only me, any actress would give anything to do the smash hit song, ‘Yeh mera dil pyar ka deewana…’ The song was picturised on Helen aunty and was a rage in those days. I did not think twice before accepting it.

You had opted out of Karan Johar’s Kal Ho Naa Ho, which resulted in some bitterness. Will you be doing a film with him again?
Definitely! The conflict is history. We have made up and will be doing a film together in the near future.

Would you like to see your sister Karisma on the big screen again?
Presently, she is busy looking after her daughter, Samaira. Of course she should work again, as she is a wonderful actress.

How do you relate to your fans abroad?
Shows are the only time we get to see, and interact with our fans. They make a great audience as they are always very charged, and I love performing abroad.

What would you like to say to them?
I LOVE YOU ALL!