Tamannaah’s Bollywood debut, Chand Sa Roshan Chehra (2004), may have bombed at the box office, but she went on to become a successful leading lady down south. Now, she’s back with Himmatwala, following which she’s got a film opposite Akshay Kumar. Two weeks ahead of the release of her comeback venture, the actor has plenty to smile about.
 
How does it feel?
I’m extremely excited. I’ve got to work with a blockbuster director and a superstar actor. I’m lucky. Everyone has put in a lot of effort and energy to make the film look awesome. It’s a complete mass entertainer, with romance, action, comedy, drama and plenty more. It’s like a thali — a mix of everything.

Comparisons with Sridevi from the original are inevitable. How does that make you feel?
All my life, I’ve dreamt of being part of something she has done. The film’s song-and-dance sequences are iconic. It feels amazing to have played her part. I was on cloud nine while shooting the song Nainon Mein Sapna.

Farah Khan said she made you dance a lot, and your experience from south films came handy.
It was a big deal for me to work with Farah ma’am. She has done two songs in the film. She’s an amazing director and an outstanding choreographer. She has always extracted the best from her actors and it was a pleasure to learn from her.

Tell us about your next film, which stars Akshay Kumar.
Once again, it will be an entertainer for the masses. I’m very excited about it.

Is it safe to say that you’re choosing mass entertainers over films for the classes?
I don’t think so. I’m an actor and would like to explore other genres too. Right now, these are the best options coming my way. For my creative satisfaction, I’d like to do various kinds of films.