"Akshay Kumar Is My Favourite"- Sania Mirza

Sania Mirza. The name exudes oomph and glamour. Yes, she has symbolised the rise of women’s tennis in India but you cannot ignore the fact that it’s also her charisma off court that has won her many admirers. “I’m quite a girlie girl at heart even though I’m a sportswoman,” she says with a warm smile. Sania’s young, she’s powerful and surprisingly, as real as can be. By her own admission, she’s a regular girl, who’s passionate about movies, music, travelling and designer clothes. Oh, and she also determinedly buzzes between subjects much like she chases the tennis ball on court. That’s what makes her such a delight to talk to. As we sip on some delicious hot chocolate, she talks about her fascination for the movies, her celebrity crushes and lots more.

Early movie memories

I’ve always been a fan of Hindi movies. As a child, I loved QSQT (Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak), Phool Aur Kaante and because Akshay Kumar was my favourite actor, I liked Mohra as well. Actually, Akshay is still my favourite. Our choices change as we grow up but Akshay has remained on the top of my list. He’s a good-looking guy. I have liked him since I was eight years old. My sister is this huge Shah Rukh Khan fan. And by huge, I mean she’s probably the biggest SRK fan I’ve ever met. Though I am not fanatic about people, AK rocks! I like Salman Khan too.

Film buff

I love the movies. Having said that, it’s not like I go and watch the first day, first show of every film. But if I’m on tour and a new Hindi film has released, I’ll definitely go and see it. And if Mahesh (Bhupathi) and I are touring together, there’s no chance we’ll miss a new film. Sometimes, even Rohan (Bopanna) joins us. Last year, when Mahesh and I were playing the US Open in New York, we saw three Hindi movies. One of them was Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi, which was cute. I loved Farah (Khan) in the film. Also, if I’m touring a country where it’s difficult to watch Hindi movies, then I catch up on all the movies I’ve missed once I return.

Favourite Hindi movies

One of my all-time favourite movies is Maine Pyaar Kiya because Salman Khan looked adorable in it. I love Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (K3G) too, as they portray relationships so beautifully. I’ve seen K3G almost 30 times. Not on DVD but whenever it’s on TV,+ and that has been some 30 odd times.

Genres I love

I love romantic films. Besides that I can watch thrillers and action films too. But I can’t watch horror films. I scare too easily. And then I can’t sleep at night. Honestly, I watch fun films. I don’t like to go to the theatre to get depressed. I like watching light-hearted movies because I have enough stress in my life, so I’d rather come out of the theatre smiling. My mother enjoys these heavy films though.

Dream role

I am quite a romantic at heart. So hypothetically speaking, if I were to act in a movie, it would be Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. I loved Kajol’s role in the film. In fact, her sporty character would suit me well. She’s a tomboy in the first half of the film and I wouldn’t have to try too hard to be a tomboy considering I’m a sports person. But since I like dressing up and love designer labels, etc. too, I believe I’d be perfect for her makeover in the second half as well.

Best tennis movie

I liked the movie Wimbledon. As a tennis player, I can relate to it because the game is actually as competitive as it’s shown in the film. Also, Bend It like Beckham is a good film based on an Indian sportswoman. Being one myself, I instantly connected with the movie.

Most talented actress

Kareena Kapoor is one of the most talented actresses in our industry. She tackles complex roles with so much ease. Plus, Kareena is beautiful and has got that X-factor.
I like Sonakshi Sinha too. Besides being a good friend, she’s a born actress and gorgeous.

Secret celebrity crush

I have a huge crush on Arjun Rampal. He’s so handsome! Besides him, obviously Akshay Kumar. But that’s no secret.

Compliments aplenty

Whenever Sajid Khan announces a film, he tells me to do a song in it. He has wanted me to dance in all four of his movies. I take that as a compliment because he’s been rather persistent. He’s a dear friend of mine but I think it’s sweet of him to ask me every time. I am too shy to dance and do all these things. Also, recently I met Vishal Bhardwaj and presented him an award at a function. The man, who’s one of the best directors in our country, told the world that he was honoured to receive the award from me. That felt nice.

Songs on loop

I listen mostly to film music. I love dance numbers. I enjoy songs like Chikni chameli. And no, this doesn’t mean I want to do a dance number. I prefer listening to these songs and running on the treadmill. Currently, Lat lag gayee from Race 2 is playing on loop on my iPod. It’s such an upbeat and sexy song. Also, Raabta (Agent Vinod) has been on my iPod for months now. It takes me a while to like a song, so these two are my latest addictions.

Love for Hollywood

Though I don’t watch too many Hollywood movies, I recently saw Argo and loved it. I like watching Matthew McConaughey, Hugh Grant and Gerard Butler films. I also enjoy watching American TV shows. I enjoyed Criminal Minds and Entourage. I am now going to start watching Game Of Thrones because my friends have recommended it.

Not a World cinema fan

I’m not into French or German movies, etc. In fact, I watch Telugu films because my friends work in the Telugu industry. I don’t fully understand the language so I watch the films with subtitles. Basically, I am a big fan of Hindi movies. I believe we make some great films.