Mumbai: From Kareena Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan and Salman Khan to finally Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan, Karan Johar’s “Shuddhi” has been in news for its casting tweaks but that does not worry the “Highway” actress. Alia, 22, said she will approach “Shuddhi”, which was announced in early 2014, like any other project. The film, to be produced by Johar and directed by “Agneepath” helmer Karan Malhotra, originally had Kareena Kapoor and Hrithik as the lead pair.
But it got derailed due to Hrithik’s health issues leading to his exit following which Kareena also walked out. Later, Salman Khan was roped in but his leading lady was undecided. After some time, Salman also opted out. I feel pressure before every film whether it’s big or small. I don’t feel like I should take anything for granted. There is pressure but it is good pressure. I am not feeling bogged down. I am excited about the film and I want to put up a great show,” Alia told PTI. This is the third time she will be teaming up with Varun after “Student of the Year” and “Humpty Sharma ki Dulhaniya”. “I hope we live up to that expectation and entertain our audience.” This is the fifth film that KJo is producing for Alia after “Student of the Year”, “2 States”, “Humpty Sharma Ki Dhulania” and “Kapoor and Sons”. “Karan is like my father to me… that is the relation I have with him. Whether we are working on a film together or any other project it is so much fun. We are comfortable with each other and the chemistry is right,” Alia said. All of Alia’s films till date have been hits and she is glad with the success each of her projects. “I am not sitting… taking a backseat and thinking I have achieved something. I don’t feel I have achieved anything. I feel I have a long long way to go. I have just started. More than being content I am excited, energetic and nervous to do more good films,” Alia said. As there are a lot of newcomers and even established actresses around, Alia thinks competition is important.
“Competition is very important. I don’t think anyone is looking at it like a race or people are running to win a first prize. Everybody wants to do very well. I feel the opportunities have become very diverse as more and more directors, writers, producers are coming up with new and exciting content,” Alia said. “I feel if not this film then other film we will get to show our talent. As long as you are engaging the audience and keeping them happy then you will be happy as well,” she said. Alia will be seen next opposite Shahid Kapoor in “Shandaar” which is set to release in October this year. She is filming for “Kapoor and Sons” with Siddharth Malhotra and she has recently wrapped up shooting for “Udta Punjab” which again has Shahid and Kareena Kapoor in the lead.
