Harman was one of the first people I met in this industry, almost five years ago. So we've been close friends for some time. It was great to be his first [co-star], just as someone was mine. It wasn't hard to work together; we had a great time. But now, we're just nervous. It's almost like the Judgement Day, as release day approaches. We've put in a lot of emotion and energy; nobody thought we'd be able to pull off a film with such a big budget, that was so ambitious. So now, we're just waiting!

But the media hasn't hesitated to link you two. How does that make you feel, that people take liberties when writing about your personal life?

It's an occupational hazard. When you reach a highly visible, public status, there are some things you must sacrifice. One of those things is part of your privacy. It can bother you, or embarrass you, but you have to learn to live with it.

I love this life and I'm thankful for every one of my fans. So it's a small price to pay.

Have you changed your tone with the media? Are you more reserved now? Were you a little naive when you first started?

I've definitely become more careful now with the media. It's their job, to report what you say and do. I do think I was a little naive when I got here. I'm from a small city, my family is very middle class. My family and I used to watch a film every now and then, some of these families make films every now and then! But I enjoy interacting with my fans and the media. I've just learned to be a little reserved. For example, I do not discuss my personal life. Ever.

You're a self-admitted small-town girl. How have you adjusted to the lifestyle? To the big city, in Mumbai? Are you a party-girl? Or do you stay at home?

I'm from a small-town, yes, but my father's career required us to move around all the time. And I was in Boston, United States. So I'm comfortable with packing up my bags and moving. Actually, I've lived [in Mumbai] longer than any other one place, because I shifted so frequently when I was young.

I love my home! It's my favourite! I'm definitely not a party-girl. While I do go for a lot of social do's, I'm not a huge fan of them. I'd rather curl up in my bed with a good movie or a good book. That's how I relax.

When I do go out, it's with my close friends. It's those times I can really let my hair out. Also, when I'm out of the country, I have more of a chance to go out without being noticed. When we were in Miami [filming Karan Johar's Dostana], I had a great time.

You really seem to be enjoying yourself, but you weren't always on the road to Bollywood. How did this get started? Did you ever imagine anything like this would happen when you were young?

It all started when my mom sent in these photos of me for Miss India. They were just random photos, I can't believe I got selected! One of them was from my application to a school in Australia, where I'm wearing a suit and trying to look studious and professional (laughs). I didn't even know she'd done it until they called back and invited me to the contest! Then, with Miss India, when I won, that's when this whole world just opened up to me. Of course, when you win [Miss Indian and Miss World], you'll get lots of offers initially, but you have to show that you merit the attention, you have to prove yourself. Else everyone will quickly move on to the next big thing.

I wasn't sure if I would like films, but it's become my entire life. I love what I do, I would not want to do anything else. I love the whole process. Just the joy of making films is enough for me. I honestly believe that someone up there (turns eyes to ceiling), helped me find my vocation. I'm destiny's child.

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