Genelia: Priyanka is fantastic

Genelia D'Souza talks about being tagged as the latest endorsement queen, her recent movies and her re-entry into Bollywood after almost five years

You've suddenly taken the industry by storm with so many endorsements and movies. What's the sudden magic?

I don't know. In fact, I've always worked with great brands. I started off with the Parker Pen advertisement with Amitabh Bachchan. I've also done the Fair & Lovely ad. When I signed for Vatika and Perk, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na… wasn't even released. Though the ads came out after the release of the movie, I had signed it before. Fanta came after Jaane Tu… was released. I am really particular about the ads that I choose. I select ads that suit my personality.

You are a teen icon – does that influence your clothes, style and behaviour?

No, I dress up in what I feel comfortable. I would rather be that than try being someone else.

The Slumdog Millionaire kids mentioned your name on stage at the Filmfare awards function. Do you feel like a role model?

Rather than being a role model, I felt like I was a part of them. To take my name on stage shows their love for me.

Why did it take you so long to make a mark in Hindi films?

I was busy in the South Indian industry. I always intended to be a part of all industries. When it comes to cinema, language is definitely not a barrier. And it's not difficult to shuttle – I manage to do it fine. When it comes to films it's not about me; it's when people of different languages expect you to deliver. Yes, it's a great high.

Abbas Tyrewala is making a sequel to Jaane Tu.... Did you ever think Jaane Tu might be such a hit?

A sequel? Not that I know of. I knew Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na… had something about it. I didn't think it would be such a ‘big' hit, but I definitely knew that it wasn't just an ordinary film.

Tell us about performing at the Miss India pageant? Do you think Priyanka stole the show?

It was great; it was my second stage and the first live show on a national level. I had a great time and was also appreciated a lot… that was like a cherry on the cake. Priyanka is fantastic; I don't think comparisons should arise.

I am a pageant person. I was very much interested in watching them; I used to watch on TV. But I was sure that I wasn't going to participate in them.

You and Harman are working in It's My Life? How do you think this film will fare keeping in mind that his career isn't soaring?

The movie is great; it's almost ready. What difference does it make if his career isn't soaring. I came back after five years. Harman is a terrific actor; he has done a great job in all the movies. Event-ually, it's the audiences' call, it's not about being good or bad, it's whether they accept you or not.

You are part of Hook Ya Crook. What is your role in the movie as most of the film is based on the life of prisoners?

That I shall tell you just before the release of the movie.

Are you into sports?

Yes, I was into sports when I was in college. I was a state level athlete and a national level football player.

Your funniest pet name?

My friends called me Mouse.