Gung ho about new release Tashan, I caught up with Saif Ali Khan in Delhi's Le Meridien Hotel. In a freewheeling chat, the actor reveals all on Yash Raj's latest, current flame Kareena Kapoor, and co-star Akshay Kumar.

One of the most eagerly awaited movies of 2008, Tashan has aroused curiosity through the tight-lipped promotional strategy coming out of the Yash Raj camp. The movie marks a departure for the production house, who typically unleash their lavish promos and red-hot music months in advance of the film's Friday opening. Guitar-playing-rocker Khan compares the banner's silence to one of his favourite bands. "The marketing of Tashan is similar to the way Led Zeppelin released their fourth album without any publicity at all, which then went on to become their biggest hit," Saif assures.

Although audiences rejected YRF's recent releases Aaja Nachle, Laaga Chunari Mein Daag and Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, Khan states, "They are a class act and a tight unit. Besides, in this industry, people love to see the top dog having a bad day." The actor is upbeat, "Tashan is something I'm looking forward to. It's a full on commercial entertainer, and a real roller-coaster ride which will appeal to everyone."

Saifu discloses the influence girlfriend Bebo has had on him of late, even rolling up the sleeve of his suit jacket to reveal a glimpse of his famous tattoo. The performer was also sporting a ring on the third finger of his left hand, but flatly denied it had any significance. "It's just a ring," he smiled, "a gold ring."

On co-star Akshay Kumar, who is rumoured to get the girl in the flick, Khan enthuses, "I enjoy sharing screen space opposite Akshay," adding, "our pairings have usually been successful."

Saif revealed he has received accolades from his father, Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, who appreciated his roles in Parineeta and Omkara. The actor, in turn, is equally proud of son Ibrahim who makes his debut in Tashan, "Ibrahim now wants to quit school and earn a thousand million rupees as an actor.

All set for another hit, the star's future is shining brightly, "I want to take even more responsibility for my career. The most important thing in my life right now is my work, and things are going really well."

Steven Baker is a UK writer who divides his time between London, Delhi, and Mumbai. Steven is best known for his writing on the Hindi Film Industry, his work regularly appears in a range of Indian, NRI, and international publications. Steven Baker is presently the Co-ordinater of the British Council's Creative Writing course in New
Delhi. He has also appeared in 15 Bollywood films.



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