In this preset vision, the quintessential Punjabi lass runs around lush fields attired in bright Patiala salwars while her colorful duppata cascades romantically in mid-air. Full of beans and charm, her temperament is, expectedly, on the cheerful, chirpy side.

Sure enough, her balle balle skills make her the heart of any party, function or event.

In the soon-to-release Heroes, Preity Zinta plays a Punjabi village belle. But there's more to her role than taking a stroll in the green countryside [which, of course, she does indulge in].

As the production notes mention, she plays the 'man of the house,' or rather a woman of responsibilities and conviction. On this note, here's a sneak peek at the various portrayals of Bollywood's Punjab di kudis in recent times:

Preity Zinta as Naina Catherine Kapur, Kal Ho Naa Ho

New Yorker Naina is part-Punjabi, part-Christian. Exotic? Not quite! Her mixed heritage poses a regular problem for this young MBA student as she struggles to maintain peace between her mocking mommy and gregarious granny.

Also, the latter is hell-bent on getting Naina married off to an eligible Punjabi bachelor through the notorious Kunwari Kudiyon te Mundey club.

Eventually, a salwar-kameez attired Naina marries a Gujarati guy amidst heavy-duty bhangra and balle balle!

Also Read: Preity Zinta, the real 'Hero'

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