Priyanka Chopra says at long last things have fallen into place for her, with several hit films under her belt and more plum assignments on the way.

"It's true. There are talks for some really prestigious projects with some of the best directors. I feel as though everything has fallen into place for me when earlier things seemed to be going wrong," Priyanka tells in an interview.

"When I joined films I wasn't really showered with plum assignments. The industry was quite cynical about another beauty queen coming in. I don't blame them."

"Waqt" is Priyanka's fourth success with Akshay Kumar.

"Of course, I'm elated by the success of 'Waqt'. It's a film that's very dear to my heart. I had cried when I heard the script. And I'm laughing now when it has succeeded. It's very rare for a star-pair to have so many successful films together. I guess it is destiny and luck."

She's just returned from Manali after a long spell of shooting for Rakesh Roshan's "Krish". And Priyanka, currently slated to be Bollywood's next numero uno, can't stop raving about the experience.

"It was like a picnic. In fact more fun than a picnic! Because we were enjoying ourselves while working! There's so much to learn from just watching the father and son at work. Rakeshji knows what he wants. As for Hrithik, I learnt a few lessons in dedication, focus and hard work from him.

"Just watching him at work is so inspiring. Yup, all in all, this was one of my best outdoor shootings ever. And I love my role in 'Krish'; I play a free-spirited, outgoing girl. It's a fun person. I love playing that."

Career-wise the past year has been a blast year for Priyanka.

"I guess 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi' and 'Aitraaz' have put in what's known as an enviable position. I'm walking very, very carefully. I don't want to make any wrong moves. I know it's not in my hands to choose a winner. But I'm learning to be very discreet.

"At the moment I've two films ready for release, 'Yakeen' and 'Barsaat'. I'm working on 'Krish'. After that I've said 'yes' to writer Rumi Jaffrey who turns director. His film will co-star Salman and me. Rumi is a terrific writer. I'm dying to see what kind of film he makes.

"That apart, I'm committed to doing Subhash Ghai's film to be directed by Satish Kaushik some time during this year. But that's it. I've kept the whole of next year free for assignments that would creep up on me."

And creeping up, they certainly are. Some of the finest filmmakers in the country are bracing themselves for the Priyanka experience.

The past year hasn't been easy for Priyanka, what with her former secretary trying every trick to bring her to heel.

"I've learnt to trust only my own judgement and my immediate family which is always there to guide me. Beyond them I've a few friends I lean on. That's it. Otherwise I'm a very private person, almost a loner. And contrary to my image I'm extremely shy about reaching out."