New Delhi: While it is proverbially impossible for any young actress to turn down the offer to work with Shah Rukh Khan, in Deepika Padukone's case it has been a conscious decision. Having kicked off her career in Bollywood with Farah Khan's 'Om Shanti Om' opposite King Khan, Deepika was approached by several filmmakers to share the screen space with him, again. However, both SRK and Deepika took close to five years to do a film together. Interestingly, Deepika and SRK agreed to take up Rohit Shetty's 'Chennai Express' for its absolute power of composition and a flawless mix of comedy and action."I'm genuinely happy that I got to work with Shah Rukh again. And the fact that this happened after 5 years, the excitement is understandably huge. Even though we were offered movies post the success of 'Om Shanti Om', we decided not to take a decision in haste," she explains.
Unlike others onscreen couples of Bollywood, who take up multiple projects post the success of their first film, SRK and Deepika waited for the right opportunity. The actors were firm about doing a project which allowed them to deliver humour, emotion and passion, all to complete the movie going experience for their supporters.
Clear about what she was looking for, and determined about leaving an impact which was as indelible as 'Om Shanti Om', Deepika is elated that her patience paid off. "We took time because we were certain about taking up a project, which was as special as our first movie. 'Om Shanti Om' will always be special to me as it was my first Bollywood film. There was so much to learn. For me, 'OSO' experience was enriching," she replies. And if Rohit Shetty's 'Chennai Express' was given a nod, that was only because "much like 'Om Shanti Om', this film too offers an interesting blend of romance, drama and comedy. All in all, it is a complete family entertainer. I want people to love and enjoy the film," she adds.
Whether the film provokes real tears and heartfelt laughter is yet to be seen, but if the actors' chemistry is anything to go by, 'Chennai Express' is expected to find several takers.
As Deepika recalls, speaking in Tamil accent, which called for consistent efforts, to make her role believable, wasn't an easy job. "Honestly, doing justice to the role wasn't difficult. Since I'm from South India, there weren't any problems in adapting to the culture. I'm familiar with the cultural practices, behavioral patterns and the mannerisms. But getting the accent right was difficult. It was only after I watched a few videos that I could understand the language. And in the next three to four days I realised it would happen perfectly," she said.
While her Tamil-Hindi accent has left many irked, the actress maintains that her upcoming film doesn't mock South India in any manner. The actress has hit back at her detractors by saying since she and Rohit Shetty belong to South India, they wouldn't spoof their own culture. But will those who take digs at the stars for no valid reason understand this?
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