I've always been very restless: Ameesha

The Bollywood actress, who turns 30 today, tells Nilufer Qureshi that she would not want her kids to inherit her hyper streak and would rather want them to be calm.

Do you have kittens in your stomach on turning a year older?
Not at all,I love it. Every year has its share of heartaches and happiness. But on the whole, life has been good. Everyone I meet wants to know how I look so young. Honestly, I'm not afraid of adding on years. I've had to tackle things early in life.. and I think I've done that with dignity.

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Which has been your most memorable birthday?
During my growing up years, my summer holidays would be spent with my uncles, aunts and cousins in Paris or London. I would be spoilt silly.

On my 21st birthday I was in France at summer school in Annecy. My family and friends flew down there to be with me. My uncle had organised a dinner at one of the finest restaurants there. It was on Saturday night, the next day my aunt had a barbecue at her place. It was a divine weekend.

How is this birthday any different?
I'll be working, shooting for an ad campaign. The last time I shot on my birthday was during Gadar. My close friends usually take me out for dinner.

Have you gone through much more than young women of your age?
Yes, in many ways. My grandparents have been incredible people. On the flip side, there have been a few rude shocks. But I have dealt with them without becoming cynical or bitter.

Are you satisfied with your career?
Absolutely. I've signed a couple of good films. It's been like a new lease of life.

How are you treated by other actresses?
I'm very clear that no one here is my friend. No two actresses who are vying for the same slot can be friends. There's no point in pretending otherwise. But I am very cordial with everyone. I have always been very professional, no can say anything negative about me.

How do you handle on-the-sets flirtation?
It's quite charming really. If someone flirts with me, I take that as a compliment. In fact, I would think there's something wrong with me if someone didn't flirt with me.

But I know where to draw the line. Men know how far they can go with me. In my case, it's all-looking-notouching.

Have you been lucky in love?
Yes, very lucky.

What about fidelity in a relationship?
That's a must. If things are not working out, then I would want my man to tell me that on my face.. I wouldn't like to hear about his unfaithfulness from a third person. Forget physically.. even if he cheats on me emotionally, I would be shattered.

When you have kids, which trait wouldn't you like them to inherit from you?
My hyper streak. I've always been very restless. I hope they are more calm and collected.

How would you describe this stage in your life?
All my nightmares are over.