She’s controversy’s favourite child. Actress Veena Malik is unapologetic about anything that’s been reported about her. Her bold photo shoot for her debut movie Dal Mein Kuch Kala Hai, directed by former actor Aanand Balraj, says a lot about the woman who only speaks her mind and is here to make her mark in the Indian film industry.
Talking about her character in Dal Mein Kuch Kala Hai, Veena says, “Firstly, it’s a female-centric movie, it’s beautiful, yet naughty. I play a double role in the film — a bubbly girl-next-door and a mysterious girl. We’ve just completed the film, and I am so happy with the kind of love and appreciation I’ve received from the industry. People have made me feel at home and I had an amazing time shooting the film.”
Veena has seven films up for release this year and says she will only do female-centric movies. “I have made it very clear to my producers that I am not open to girl-meets-boy kind of films. Each of my films is different from the other. I think I’m really blessed that people have faith in me,” shares Veena.
Her recent photos flashed in a newspaper showed her sharing a cosy meal with director Hemant Madhukar. When asked if it affects her image, Veena defends herself and says, “Controversy is part and parcel of the trade. It comes with being an actor. I meet a lot of people and go out with them, if people want to perceive a simple dinner as something else, it doesn’t change the fact. I have beautiful relationships with all my friends, so such stories don’t affect me.”
Veena is super excited about her debut in the Kannnada film industry with The Dirty Picture. Despite Ekta Kapoor stating that she has not given the rights of the Hindi film to be remade, Veena is sure of the film being made. She says, “I am eating a lot these days to gain weight for my character in The Dirty Picture. I am really looking forward to my shoot.”
For someone who’s not a foodie, piling up kilos is a huge task. Veena says, “Believe me, it’s very difficult to eat a lot, especially since I am not fond of eating. I am taking this as an assignment and will gain the weight as I’ve been asked.”
Quiz her about her much awaited reality show Veena Ka Swayamvar and she says, “For now, I am too busy to keep track of it. But my management and team is in touch. If there’s any development, the media will surely learn of it.”
While every actress dreams of working with the Khans in the industry, Veena says she doesn’t want to work with them. However, she has her favourite directors listed out. “I will never work in a film with Salman, Aamir or SRK as I will be in their shadow. I will only work in women-oriented movies. But I would love to work with Madhur Bhandarkar, Sanjay Gupta and Ram Gopal Varma. I especially love Ramu’s films. I’d also love to do an action-comedy film someday,” she signs off.