The versatile actress Divya Dutta, who finally got her dues in Yash Chopra's Veer-Zaara has just returned after ten "extremely fulfilling days" in Karachi where she shot for a TV mini- series called Tere Ishq Main.

Her current favourite topic of conversation, but of course now, is Karachi.

"At first, I was not sure what the experience would be like. I had heard about the hospitality extended to Indian artistes in Pakistan from Kirron Kher (who shot for Khamosh Pani on the other side of the border) and others. But it's another thing to get a taste of it first-hand.

Believe me, the people of Karachi treated me like a queen. I can confidently say we're most welcome in our neighbouring country."

Divya plays the pivotal part in Tere Ishq Mein. "They had seen my work in Shaheed-e-Mohabbat: Boota Singh and Jogger's Park.

When I first saw the director, I wondered how he'd be able to carry it off. He's so young! But he was so much in-charge. And my Pakistani co-stars were exceptional. Such natural performances, even I had to lower my sur."

The actress was accompanied to Karachi with her mother who is from the city. "She returned to Karachi after 55 years. It was a very sentimental homecoming for her."

Presently Divya is in Chandigarh, where she shot Veer-Zaara. "Not only Veer-Zaara but also Des Hoya Pardes, my new Punjabi film with singer-actor-producer Gurdas Mann was shot there. I had earlier done Shaheed-e-Mohabbat: Boota Singh with the same team."

Des Hoya Pardes, which premieres in Punjab and overseas this week, has the potential to make the same emotional impact as Shaheed, says its lead protaganist.

"It goes back to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and portrays the lives of those Sikhs who had to leave India and seek political asylum in other countries for fear of being branded terrorists at home. It's a beautiful human story and I've a role to die for."

As to reports in the Mumbai papers about her impending marriage, Divya giggles, "I was shocked to know I was getting married. No one had invited me to my own wedding.

I'm seeing someone and it's serious. I'm not a frivolous person. If I got into a relationship, it must be for keeps. But marriage? Please! I've just started getting my dues as an actress. Marriage is a long way off."