The media has a say in every action around us. It is the shadow that follows well-known people. Till now, you will recall no controversy about me — none that was blown so out of proportion.
Today the press talks about this shoot that I did for a magazine called The Man. The shoot has been given many names including "Lesbian Shoot".
It was interrupted by the MNS because it was found too hot for Indian men to digest. And, never done in the history of Indian cinema.
Well, what would you call the sculptures in the caves of Ajanta and Ellora, a place where tourists from all over the world visit? What would you call these works of art where two beautiful females bodies come into contact with each other, posing for an artist to create an exquisite work of art?
I am sure that if technology was advanced in those days we would have photographs as well. Does that mean those women were lesbians? Don't you appreciate the beauty of their body language? Are we not proud of our heritage?
Do we not promote these as a must-see destination? Do you find these caves outrageous? If you do, then I would give you all the right to call my photo shoot outrageous, steamy or whatever.
See my pictures carefully. Do you see any lip locks here? Any body rubbing pictures? This is just a contemporary adaptation of Ajanta and Ellora. It's only about my expressions. Check it out.
Instead of those provocative expressions, if I had just laughed or smiled, it may have well been a volleyball or a basketball lying next to me.
Who are the people who are against it? And why? What's wrong with it? Do you not like it? Ask yourself. I guess it's time to come out of your hypocritical shell.
Even if you think it was a lesbian shoot, so what? It's fiction. Charlize Theron played a lesbian in Monster and it won her an Oscar. Does that make her one? I would love to play Charlize Theron's role anytime. Go watch the movie, guys. You will be surprised.
I read an article where men from Bollywood reacted to the photo shoot. These were people ranging from Rahul Dholakia to Ken Gosh and Jag Mohan Mundra to Madhu Manatana and many more. Read what they have to say:
Rahul Dholakia: I saw the shoot, and I thought it was an interesting concept and a good marketing tool. It's bold but not obscene.
Ken Gosh: It's quite an interesting concept! Great going!
Jag Mohan Mundra: I think it's quite beautiful and provocative. Her body language is defiant; celebrating raw female sexuality.
Suparn Verma: More woman power! She looks fabulous and the pictures are aesthetically done. I think the moral police should take a nap!
Every one has praised the shoot. So then, where are the people who have a problem with it? People from the industry, people who know me, people who don't know me – every one has just loved the pictures.
As an actor, 'Garam Masala' gave me a launch pad, 'Traffic Signal' gave me recognition, 'Oye Lucky, Lucky Oye' gave me establishment, '13 B' gave me critical acclaim.
But this controversy has given me my individuality. It has helped me to graduate to another level. I have found supporters who not only appreciate just my acting, but also appreciate my glam side. As an actor this is how I am willing to push the boundaries of my profession.
I do agree that I have loads to learn but with experience, every project of my life has taught me to face the world with confidence and — most importantly — with positivity. I take this controversy, which is a risk for my own image, bravely. At least I am happy that I am not in a controversy where I am breaking a home or a marriage.
I am not having a rollercoaster ride with a series of men just to be in the news. I am not in the news for being with somebody for the longest time and then breaking off in a second for reasons that are known. Maybe it's just not my cup of tea to be in a relationship and still be seeing other men.
I am in the centre of a controversy, which became national news overnight for reasons that are known. Those being that it's too hot for Indian men to handle. Is it? Or would you agree that it was always a fantasy to see two female bodies together?
I stand by what I did, and always will. I don't see anything wrong in it. Doing a photo shoot like this doesn't take away my talent. It won't change me as an actor. It won't divert me from hard work, dedication and respect towards my profession. I know if I lose any of these threads I won't have any business being here.
This shoot has actually made me complete as an actor — with no inhibitions, and it should have happened a long time ago. As they say every thing happen for the best and everything has a reason. I am glad this has happened to me.
Today I am approached by the best and the most talented directors for reasons that are known. They know now that I would fit the bill for any role. All thanks to destiny. Everything happens for our own good. So be positive as that is the one thing I believe in and that's my strength.
Courtesty: Itimes.com