Ayesha Takia, the pretty actress who made her debut with "Taarzan - The Wonder Car", is among the rising young stars in Bollywood.

Since her debut in 2004, the vivacious actress has worked in several films including "Socha Na Tha" with Dharmendra's nephew Abhay Deol, "Dil Maange More" opposite Shahid Kapur and David Dhawan's multi-starrer "Shaadi No 1".

Ayesha won the Filmfare Sensational Debut Award in 2004. She has also done several advertisements and music videos.

Ayesha's father is Gujarati and her mother is half British and half Maharashtrian.

In a freewheeling chat, the chirpy actress gives her take on issues that make her glad and those that make her sad. From pollution to politics, religion to black magic, food to family, she tells it like it is.

Excerpts:

Q: Would you ever join politics?
A: No...I don't want to get into it. I'd rather not comment.

Q: Your dream destination?
A: My job is such that I keep travelling so there is no such thing like a dream destination.

Q: One thing you like about Mumbai?
A: The first thing that comes to the mind about Mumbai is the traffic and the bad roads. However I love the cosmopolitan attitude of the people. Everyone is accepted irrespective of their caste, creed or background.

Q: Do you u believe in rebirth?
A: No...not at all!

Q: What's your take on pollution?
A: Pollution issue is really sad. Every one should contribute in their own little way I feel. It's really a disgusting sight to see people roaming in swanky cars roll down their windows and litter stuff. Don't they feel embarrassed?

Q: Most cherished moments of your school or college days?
A: don't remember much about school. Actually I started working when I was sixteen so I couldn't attend college.

Q: Your take on black magic, superstitions and ghosts?
A: I don't know much about black magic. I am not superstitious at all and about ghosts, well I do believe in god and so I believe in spiritual energy and powers.

Q: Beauty or brains?
A: Beauty is very external, I'd obviously go for brains.

Q: If you could change one thing about India, what would it be and why?
A: (Chuckles) I'd like to keep it to myself.

Q: What is sense of humour to you?
A: I think it's very important to have a good sense of humour considering today's scene. We all have our share of ups and downs so it's really important to have a hearty laugh I feel.

Q: Favourite quote or mantra?
A: I don't have any favourite quote as such, though I say 'god bless you' very often.

Q: One thing you can't live without?
A: The beautiful people in my life!

Q: Craziest or weirdest thing that you've ever done?
A: Nothing really.

Q: Your first date?
A: It's very personal.

Q: The last book that you read?
A: I can't really recall.

Q: Spirituality to you means...
A: Spirituality to me is staying connected with your inner self. I do lots of yoga and meditation.

Q: Last time you took a cab?
A: I think four years back.

Q: Last time you went to a sabzi mandi?
A: I've not been to one at all.

Q: Last time you cooked?
A: I've never cooked but I can make good tea and coffee.

Q: Last time you fought with someone?
A: (Laughs) I think it's very private.

Q: One thing that you like about people?
A: Honesty and cheerful people who are always smiling.

Q: Turn off?
A: 'Fakeism' turns me off totally.

Q: Most prized possession?
A: I think material things come and go. So for me, people matter the most.

Q: Your weakness and strength?
A: My mom and my boyfriend.

Q: You are crazy about?
A: I'm crazy about a hell lot of things like travelling, my family, watching new films and learning new things.

Q: Favourite food?
A: I love everything that tastes good. I have a sweet tooth so I like indulging in chocolates and pastries. Also, I love everything available at Farhan's (Azmi) restaurant.