Both Salman and Shah Rukh Khan are fond of me: Deepika Padukone

Deepika Padukone has had an amazing run in 2013, with four big films - Race 2, YJHD, Chennai Express and Ram-Leela to her name. The actress puts rumours to rest that suggested her working with one Khan might upset the other

Deepika Padukone has had an amazing run in 2013, what with four big films (Race 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express and now Goliyon Ki Ras Leela, Ram-Leela) to her name. And she’s been more than just the pretty female lead; her acting has been noteworthy too. Here, she talks about success, wanting to work with Salman Khan, and why that won’t really upset the other Khan, Shah Rukh.

To set the record straight, are you doing Sooraj Barjatya’s next with Salman Khan?
No, I haven’t been approached or met Soorajji, neither have I met Salman recently. So I don’t know where these stories are coming from. Having said that, I really am looking forward to doing something with Salman because I feel it’s overdue.

Some people wondered why you weren’t on his reality show to promote your recent film.
It’s unfortunate that I couldn’t go on Bigg Boss. I was in Goa shooting for my next film, so Ranveer (Singh; co-star) had to go alone.

Do you feel — as reports suggest — that if you work with Salman, Shah Rukh Khan may not like it?
Absolutely not. Forget about me, it makes them sound immature, which they are not. Salman and Shah Rukh are fond of me and I’m fond of them. And I think they both are happy for me as far as my work is concerned. I don’t think one would have an issue if I work with the other.

Deepika Padukone has four successful films in her kitty

It has been a long time since Ranbir Kapoor and you broke up. Are you open to the possibility of a new relationship?
Not soon. Of course, you can’t plan such things. But I’m not ready to emotionally invest, and I won’t be able to do justice to a relationship I get into. I’m happy focusing my energies on my work. I don’t feel the need to be in a relationship.

You’ve had four big releases this year. Do you feel you’re ahead in the race right now?
It feels nice when people appreciate your work. But it’s just the beginning. I believe I still have a lot more to achieve. I’ve never been concerned about what anyone else is doing. I have always focused on what I am doing, and bettering myself with each film.

Would you say your role as Leela has been your toughest to date?
Yes, so far, but I wonder what the future has in store. Until Ram-Leela happened, it was Cocktail. My part in Chennai Express was again out of my comfort zone.

Some time ago you stated that you liked working with Ranveer better than with Ranbir?
No, I have had a great time working with both. I don’t think I’m in any position to say who I have better chemistry with. In Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, my co-star’s role was different; even the two films are different. So it’s not fair to compare.