Nisha Kothari does a Basanti

Doing a modern take on Hema Malini's legendary Basanti role was not easy. But she sizzles in Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag, says Nisha Kothari."I can vouch this film is going to be really hot; my auto Laila is topless throughout the film," laughs Nisha Kothari when asked about her upcoming film, Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag. On a serious note, Nisha is aware the film has received a lot of flak in the film industry."But it has generated a lot of interest and it's a big boost for our film," she says. And what does she think of the change in title from Ram Gopal Varma ki Sholay to Ram Gopal Varma ki Aag? Will it impact the film? "We've aroused more curiosity and made big news. People will now want to know the difference between the two. And I don't think it's affected the film; we only stand to gain in the bargain," explains Nisha.
The actress has been much discussed for taking up the role of the legendary Basanti. What was it like to be in Hema Malini's shoes? "I was a nervous wreck on the first day of shooting. Every magazine and news channel was talking about Nisha Kothari playing Basanti. But with due respect to Hemaji , my character in the film has been inspired by Basanti and is in no way similar to her. I play a tapori called Ghungroo who rides an auto named Laila, not a horse called Dhanno. Our attitudes are different. I smoke in the film and even attempt to do it like Rajnikanth!" clarifies Nisha.
In fact, Hema Malini recently told Karan Johar on his show that she didn't appreciate Sholay being remade. Nisha's take? "Hemaji is completely right. I'd have felt the same if I were in her place. Sholay is Indian cinema's biggest blockbuster and its magic can never be recreated . Our film is Ramuji's tribute to his favourite film, keeping the spirit of the original intact." And, isn't there a steamy number with Ajay Devgan? "Yeah, when taporis romance, that doesn't mean they wear their bandanas, torn tees and jeans, right? But it's been well shot and Ajay looks really hot," she says. And what was it like, working with biggies like Amitabh Bachchan and Sushmita Sen? "I had worked with Bachchan saab in Sarkar and as soon as he saw me, he said, 'Kitni patli ho gayi ho.' That was so sweet of him. Sushmita is gorgeous and dignified . And she cries so beautifully ! We've even done a song together. I'm not worried that she might overshadow me - I'm happy just standing next to her." Finally, is she RGV's muse? Why does he cast her in every film? "What does muse mean? RGV is my mentor and he'll cast me only if he feels I suit the role. And I'm not cast in every film of his - I'm not in Darling or Sarkar 2. So there!"