Making films is about having absolute and foolish confidence; the challenge for all of us is to have the heart of a poet and the skin of an elephant.

You've got to understand that in Bollywood, every actor is an instrument, and yet a human being. They come to the set with a set agenda, believing, 'This is who I am, this is what I want, and no, I am not going to become that character you want me to.'

Humility is not a trait I often associate with America.

What is really important to me is a sense of humour and a mischief about life. Life is just too boring otherwise.

I grew up in a very small town which is remote even by Indian standards. I always dreamed of the world.

We have three generations at home, including my father-in-law. I keep a very low profile, and a lot of things I do are very much with the family in mind. I have actually made films with the family around me.

Truth is more peculiar than fiction. Life is really a startling place.