After unsuccessful attempts to get into films, she hit it big with Gangster and Woh Lamhe. The actress in question? 20-year old sensation Kangana Ranaut.

Now, the actress awaits the release of her latest film Shakalaka Boom Boom, directed by Suneel Darshan and co-starring Bobby Deol, Upen Patel and Celina Jaitley.

Here's what the actress has to say:

How did the film happen?

I was very keen to do the film as soon as I heard the script, which Suneelji narrated to me over the phone. Unfortunately, I could not sign due to a problem with dates. I turned down the offer as I was shooting in Dubai for Woh Lamhe.

But destiny has a strange way of giving you what you want, and I got to do the film after my shoot at Dubai was over. Suneelji called up again and said that they would wait for me.

Is it true that Aditya Pancholi's daughter Sana was first considered for the role?

Actually I was so busy in Dubai that I only came to know later about other girls being considered for the role.

What do you think of Himesh Reshammiya's music?

I know that he is a successful singer and composer and that his music appeals to youngsters and collegians. If his songs do well, it can only mean good news for the film.

In this film you play the role of singer. Do you sing in real life?

I do sing, especially when I'm happy. but how I sing is not very important (laughs).

How was it working with these co-stars?

See, I keep to myself. I believe in being professional. I believe in doing your work and maintaining a professional rapport with everyone. So I was okay with everyone.

But don't you feel lonely when shooting in a foreign country?

No, I don't feel lonely because I have been on my own since I was in the 6th standard.

So Kangana Ranaut doesn't get lonely?

Nobody can give you happiness. You are responsible for your own happiness. Personally, after a whole day of shooting and the pressure that goes with it, I don't have time to feel lonely!

What or whom do you attribute your success to?

It's all about destiny.

When you are at the receiving point, you don't have a choice in the matter.

What other roles do you want to do?

I want to do other roles besides the ones I did in the last two films. I'm encouraged by their success and would want to do more challenging roles.

You sport a different look for this film.

My character in the film is a US-based girl who cannot stand her hair unmanaged. All her clothes are trendy, as well as her look. Manish Malhotra was responsible for her look.

Personally how do you like to dress?

It has to be trendy, of course. I can't stand outdated clothes. I love fashion and keep updated on the latest trends around the world through the Internet.

Do you have a stylist?

No, I don't. I choose the clothes myself though I'm no designer.

Which film is closer to you, Woh Lamhe or Gangster?

It's impossible to choose! I've worked hard and spent sleepless nights doing both the films. It's like asking me to choose between Simran or Sana.

Which is your favourite bedroom line?

Keep the lights on.

Your first crush?

Hrithik Roshan, when I was in the eight standard.

Your favourite actress?

Meena Kumari.

If you and Upen were stuck in an elevator, what would you do?

I don't know, we will have to call someone to get out of that.

About the rumours of a Yash Raj contract...

It is a rumour. There is not even 1% truth in that.

Best moment in Bollywood till now?

Winning all the awards for the best newcomer.

Your most difficult scene to date?

It has to be the one in Woh Lamhe where I had to explain my attack of schizophrenia to Shiney's character.

Does your character go home with you?

Yes. Letting go doesn't happen suddenly. It takes time.

What are your expectations of Shakalaka Boom Boom?

It's a very important movie at this point of time in my career. I have high expectations and I want people to like it.

What's next?

After Metro, I am doing 2 more movies with UTV.

- rediff