Then you should? (Laughs]) The persona of Aamir is so large -- of a thinking, methodical actor that gets into the entire filmmaking process.

I am glad with how Aamir projected me after Lagaan. He protected me, nurtured, me took care of me and said -- 'Ash, yeh hone wala hai' -- that everyone is going to attribute 'ki maine hi banayi hain picture.' Don't be fazed by that.

He himself constantly projected me everywhere ki bhai, yes, I am the producer but it is Ashutosh's film. So there was never any insecurity about the film.

Even after the film was released, the first share of credit definitely had to go to him because ultimately he pulled me out of the rut.

After my first two films I was completely down and out and my directorial career was as good as over. I could have definitely made a small film or something. But to say yes to Lagaan and then put your money where your mouth is, was a big, courageous and bold thing.

Above: On location for Lagaan