When she’s not sizzling on screen, Rakhi Sawant knows how to serve verbal sizzlers too! Regimented childhood: I belong to a highly conservative middle class family. My father and maternal uncle were in the police force and obviously were very strict. My mother wanted me to get married and have children as soon as I was old enough, but I never wanted to be like some girl next door. I knew my mind and wanted to live life on my own terms.
Sibling talk: My father wanted my brother (who is a director now), to join the police force but he wanted to make films. I helped him get into the entertainment industry. We have also worked together but at work we share a professional relationship.
Lonely lady: When I started my career, nobody helped me. I struggled for some five years, I did small roles and gradually started getting work. ‘Chura Liya Hai Tumne’ gave me recognition.
Timeless tag: I am happy to be tagged as an ‘item girl’. I believe people remember item girls much more than heroines. Don’t we remember Helen for her amazing dance numbers? I am happy doing item songs but of course, acting is a serious career option.
Don’t give a damn: I am a straightforward person and I don’t care how people take my straightforwardness. I am what I am. I know people talk about me out of jealousy, but I am least bothered.
Cheap publicity: People say I intentionally created the now infamous ‘kiss’ issue surrounding me and Mika. But I am an Indian girl and I would never do such a cheap act. After this incident I have become more careful about people in the industry.
Hard lessons: I have learnt a few things from that incident; not to trust anybody or to be very close to anyone, and when going to a party, take a group of friends along.
By God’s grace: I don’t have a colourful personal life. I live alone but God is with me. Whatever I am today is just because of God and I am thankful to him.
