Esha Deol should thank her stars for having mama Hema Malini by her side. It helps to have an experienced hand to guide you. In a few years from now, Esha will know this more than anybody else.

Story goes that Hema Malini befriended Aftab as soon as news of her beti`s "close friendship" with him reached her. A shrewd Malini then played her cards to get the desired results. She put her dance practice on hold. She showed keen interest in her daughter`s career, planned a strict regimen for her, advised her on various aspects and set a target for her to achieve — the number one position.

And with so much on her plate, out went the Aftab Shivdasani from Esha`s life. As Esha is said to have told "boyfriends can wait"!