I feel very happy to make Akshay proud

In the last fortnight, it became common knowledge that Akshay Kumar had a role to play in Lara Dutta Bhupathi's striking presence in Ranjit Tiwari's BellBottom. The actor had approached her to play former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi when the film was being cast. While she initially took it as a prank, she soon realised the seriousness of the matter. Make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad and his team helped Lara with her reel avatar which has won a lot of praise. The actress-producer feels happy that Akshay's conviction paid off.

"When I talk about reinvention, Akshay is one person who comes to mind instantly. He's a dear friend, and an actor-producer who is so astute and smart. He has gone from being an action star to someone who excelled in comedy, and then, he has spent about a decade doing these really interesting characters that challenge him. He has this clean and pure energy, he's disciplined and a thorough professional who utilised time wisely, was completely focussed, and made sure we all finished our tasks in time. Working with him is like a little party, it never feels like one is working but a lot is packed in those hours on set. I feel great working with him. I've observed this about him: he's clear in his head about where he wants to go, what he wants to do, there are no digressions, no inhibitions about what he has to do. The equation I share with Akshay is way beyond our work. He is a friend I rely on. And today, I feel happy to have made him proud with my work."