Take a look at this sultry nymphet for a while. She was trashed by every Tom, Dick and Harry in the industry for her 'Yes-I'm-Hot' attitude. Her statements like, "I'm a virgin..." or "I'm like Viagra" created as much furor off screen as her scorching smooches.

Bahenji took morchas against her, numerous barbs were hurled but she fought tooth and nail and today, she is a Youth Icon of India, courtesy CNN.

Rising from a humble Jat heartland in Haryana Mallika found her place under the sun when the biggest private TV network in America decided to go tête-à-tête with her. In his first brush with the rusty lady, Riz Khan, a renowned journalist and broadcaster, refers her the 'Kiss Miss' as a youth icon of India.

The interview follows her sojourn in the Bollywood from the day one, when she used to live in a rat hole and cried herself to sleep. It also carries ample references to her latest erotic thriller 'Murder', which is currently running to packed houses.

How Mallika is feeling? Get it straight form the lady herself.

"It feels great to be interviewed by CNN. And I certainly feel honoured to have the title of 'youth icon' bestowed upon me. Although it is for the young people in this country to decide if I truly deserve such glowing praise, one thing is clear - I have done my best to reflect their aspirations. Like them, I too am 'bindaas' and don't believe in hypocrisy," she gushes.

However, reluctant to reveal any more details, she says, "Since the interview hasn't been shown yet, it would be unfair if I talk about it. While I don't know exactly when it will be aired, CNN has told me to expect it this week."

Recognizing her rare feat of pulling low-budget film to box office success, Riz himself congratulated Sherawat and addressed her as a Hero of the film.

Don't mind all you Mumbai beauties but that's what we call a real 'Westward ho'!