/> The epitome of grace Hema Malini thinks the sari isn't being accorded the respect it deserves at international events.

Says the outspoken lady, "I see it being worn in strange ways at these events where our representatives are being watched by millions. The pallu is awry and the girls end up looking undignified. Just because you want to show off your curves it doesn't mean you can wear the sari like that."

Hema has her sari ready. "And it's going to be worn with the dignity that the apparel deserves."

Incidentally there was a story in Hema's heydays about how she never repeated her saris. "Yes that's true. My mother would buy so many Kanjeeravams. Nowadays it's even tougher to repeat the sari since the media catches the repetition and highlights it."

Accompanied by her younger daughter Ahana, Hema left for her career's first retrospective at the Bangkok international film festival. "I took personal interest in selecting the films. Initially I didn't realize the importance of this honour. We've finally selected five of my films....Lal Patthar, Sholay, Baghban, Dillagi and Khushboo.

Hema was very keen on including the 1974 starrer Premnagar. "But that film has already been much-seen in that part of the world.In Thailand they're crazy about seeing me and Rajesh Khanna together."

"I don't think anyone else from the Indian film industry except Rakeysh Mehra is coming to Bangkok."

Hema is in Bangkok till 21 July. "July 19 and 20...for two days I'll be their state guest. Then I'm free to keep myself busy. I do hope I can speak about my films on stage. I'm not shy. But I'm shy of speaking about myself."