JLo's cousin to sizzle in Bollywood

Jennifer Lopez's sexy cousin Caterina Lopez is all set to perform a sizzling item number in the film Bhindi Bazaar, starring Kay Kay Menon, Prashant Narayanan and Shilpa Shukla.

Caterina has a role in the film too -- she plays a bar dancer. The item number is a turning point in the film, revealing a suspense that takes the plot to another level.

The film tells us the story of gangs, who reside in the densely populated area of Bhindi Bazaar in Mumbai.

Caterina speaks to Rajul Hegde about her Bollywood experience and of course, her sexy cousin.

Why an item song in Bollywood?

Why not? (smiles)

It's an entertaining industry where singing, dancing and acting is combined into a film. I think that's awesome.

When I got this offer, I thought it's not a bad choice. An item number is a good platform to start off in Bollywood. I have no problem doing item songs. I am very excited about the whole thing.

Have you watched Bollywood films?

Yes. I have watched some of them in parts but have mostly watched item numbers. I have watched Luck, Action Replayy and Dabangg. I really liked the item song Munni Badnaam Hui.

Did you start watching Hindi films after you got this offer?

Not really. I was always interested in Hindi films. I would hear people discussing some Bollywood films. I watch them to keep myself updated.

Who is your favourite actor in Bollywood?

Shah Rukh Khan is a charmer and I have a huge crush on him. Akshay Kumar is adorable in Action Replayy. If I get a chance to do a song with him, it would be great (smiles). I like Katrina Kaif.

Why do you think international stars are restricted to item songs and reality shows?

Yes, they are, to a certain extent. But hopefully, people will open up to me, and see that I am cast opposite some big actors (laughs).

I plan to take Hindi lessons. That will help me improve my pronunciation and dialogue delivery. I have learnt words like 'namaste' and some words in my song. Dancing, singing and acting is definitely right up my alley!

I would like to make a mark like the way Jennifer Lopez has in the industry. That is what inspires me. I want to reach my goals the same way, on my own learning and experience.

The Lopez family has supported me with Bollywood.

Are you a trained dancer?

I am not exactly trained but I have danced hip hop and ballad in school.

Was it easy dancing to an item number? 

It wasn't easy because I was in a different country, learning dance in a different language. But it was challenging and fun. The choreographer was very patient.

Now I am excited and waiting to perform another item song! You will love the song because it is catchy. The lyrics are bad when you translate it 'taan ke seena ho ja kameena' to English but it's fine because it's part of the movie.

How has your Mumbai experience been so far?

Mumbai is like New York. It is wonderful, except for the traffic. I've been here a week now and am busy with film's promotions.

I done some shopping here. I love saris and have picked up a few of them to gift my relatives.

Tell us about your background.

I have seven sisters. I have studied in a school of music business. I got into modeling by chance. I have acted in a few films but they're not big enough for a mention. I consider Bhindi Bazaar as my biggest break.