Rani Mukerji is undoubtedly one of the top heroines in Bollywood. After fine performances in 'Hum Tum', 'Yuva' and 'Veer-Zaara', Rani will now be seen in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Black'. Here are the excerpts from an interview by Vickey Lalwani:

How was the experience of doing 'Black'?

It has been a wonderful experience. Working on 'Black' has made me realize that those who are physically or mentally challenged are actually much stronger than normal, successful human beings. It has been a very draining experience no doubt but it has been very satisfying at the same time.

How was it working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali?

Bhansali is a very sensitive director. The way he approaches every aspect of filmmaking is awe-inspiring. 'Black' is his baby. It's certainly not an easy subject to direct and he has shown his class by giving the film such a sensitive treatment.

You almost refused Bhansali earlier. Why?

I had to portray a girl who is not only deaf and dumb, but also blind. I wondered whether I would be able to pull off such a difficult role. Moreover, Sanjay is a perfectionist. He wants nothing but the best. It was only due to him that I have been able to pull it off.

Both 'Veer Zaara' and 'Black' see you in extremely unconventional roles. Is this a conscious effort?

No, I have always loved doing conventional roles. I play conventional characters in some of my upcoming projects. In Ravi Chopra's 'Babul', I play Amitabh Bachchan's daughter-in-law, while I play a fun-loving character in Shaad Ali's 'Bunty Aur Babli'. I am also in Karan Johar's forthcoming flick.

What about Mira Nair's 'The Namesake'? Weren't you supposed to do it?

I wanted to do the film but there were date problems. I was committed to do 'Bunty Aur Babli' and Karan Johar's next film at the same time, and I didn't want to back out of those as both Aditya and Karan are very close to me. I had a talk with Mira Nair and we parted amicably.

What is your role in 'The Rising'?

I’m Aamir Khan's love interest. I’m playing a prostitute.

There are rumours that you got Amisha’s role reduced in ‘The Rising?

Such rumours are absolutely frivolous, there was nothing like this. Such rumours are the figments of some highly imaginative folks who have nothing better to do.

Coming back to 'Black'. Do you think such an unconventional flick will click at the box-office?

I pray it does. We have toiled extremely hard. I will be very hurt if 'Black' does not click. But eventually, whatever is its fate at the box-office, it will remain my most special movie.