She doesn’t mind being trapped in her sexy image and she’s in no hurry to prove herself. Suchitra Sen’s youngest granddaughter exudes a carefree charm, and also loads of attitude. Riya Sen uncorks her thoughts for t2 while partying at Hushh, City Centre.

What are your forthcoming movies? I have two movies, Love Tadka and Mera Bharat Mahan. Love Tadka is being directed by Srinivas and I was not very sure of the role. But he persuaded me and now I am very happy I did the film. I play a schoolgirl in the film. Not any glamorous schoolgirl though. My co-actor is Randeep Hooda and there are other female stars. It’s a relationship-based story and looks at each of the women’s relationship with Randeep.

Mera Bharat Mahan is a multi-starrer and a comedy. It has everybody including Salman Khan and Bobby Deol.

What do you look for while choosing a film?

The banner. That’s very important. I hardly look at the length of the role or how many stars there are in the film. When Subhashji (Subhash Ghai) called me for Apna Sapna Money Money, he had called me with two films Apna Sapna… and Good Boy Bad Boy. He asked me which one I’ll do. I asked him to choose for me. Finally I did Apna Sapna… And I am so glad I did it. I got so many offers after that film, but I am in no tearing hurry. I am choosing only the best ones. I also enjoy doing ad films and I make many promotional appearances.

Doesn’t the length of the role matter to you at all?

No. If you do good work, you are noticed. The length doesn’t matter. And I don’t mind doing special appearances.

You don’t seem to be in a rush to prove yourself...

I am not. There’s enough work in Mumbai now for everybody. There is no need to feel stressed. I consciously do only one or two movies a year and some ad films.

Your image is that of a sexy actress. Aren’t you bothered by such typecasting?

You can’t avoid it! Here you are typecast after your very first film. Personally though, I have no problems with my image.

And the controversies that surround you? I don’t care. I don’t read the articles any more. I just count them.

Do comparisons with your sister Raima affect your relationship with her?

Comparisons are unavoidable I guess. I am used to it. But in no way does it affect my relationship with Raima. If I get a good film Raima is the first person I’ll call and it’s the same with her. We confide in each other more than in our parents.

Do you regret not doing The Bong Connection with her?

I never regret anything. I haven’t seen the movie, but I am glad it did so well.

Any plans to do a film with Raima?

Only if there is a good offer.

What is your biggest asset as an actor?

(Thinks) I don’t know! (Laughs)

Looks?

Sure, that’s important.

Poulomi Banerjee

(Who do you like more — Riya or Raima? Tell t2@abpmail.com)