How did Ek Paheli- Leela happen?
My husband (Daniel Weber) and I are good friends with Bobby Khan, who has produced Ek Paheli- Leela. We socialise a lot. A year ago, Bobby told me that he wants to make a film with me which would have me in two roles- Meera and Leela. I got quite excited. And you know what!
What?
My skin was tanned for Leela’s role. And my husband (Daniel Webber) loved it.
Was it tough to prepare for the role?
Well, I left it to the film's director Bobby Khan to make me get into the skin of the two characters. Speaking Hindi was not difficult as I have improved upon that language with the passage of time. But yes, we didn't get much time for the dance rehearsals before the film went on floors.
So it wasn't very easy, but what about your journey in Bollywood so far?
It has not been easy either. I have no idea how to take my life forward. A lot would depend on Ek Paheli- Leela. It may sound shallow- but in Bollywood you are as good as your last film. If it all ends for me today/tomorrow, it would be just my destiny.
Haven't you got trapped in your sexy image?
I want to do different things in life, so naturally I don't want to remain trapped. I hope it changes in certain ways. But then, it shouldn't change totally.
Why?
Don't people go to theaters to see actors who are beautiful, sexy and bold? Actors who entertain them? If I am entertaining people, then so be it.
So its a double-edged sword, but whats Sunny Leone behind the cameras?
I am a very normal girl. I am probably less exciting than people think I am (smiles).
Why is your husband managing your career?
I didn't put Daniel in that position. We are business partners and best friends. Its only natural that he would always have my best interests in mind. He is the reason I get to be Sunny Leone; he gives me full freedom (pauses).
Please continue
He never imposes his thoughts on me. Mind you, I never do a film if I don't like the script.
Have you settled down in Mumbai now?
Yeah. Los Angeles has become the vacation home where I go to meet my brother. I am here until my fans want me.
Your parents thought you were a rebel when you became an adult-star
I wish that my parents were alive to see that what I have done with my life today. Its not a good feeling that they are not around me, but I think they must be seeing me and know where I have reached.
It's been four years since you made that controversial entry with Jism. Has Bollywood started looking at you differently now?
I think its a very slow progression towards acceptance. I feel like an elephant in a room when I go to a social event which has Bollywood celebrities. There is definitely an acceptance- but I am not sure if its fully out there yet. People still want to know what I am all about and if I am here to say.
You have done many bold avatars. What's your take on the Censor Board having tightened its screws so tight?
For your information, my views are far more liberal as everybody probably knows (laughs). Does it hurt that filmmakers are not getting to say through their work what they want to? Yes it hurts but... (pauses).
But?
I think like an American. I am nobody to give an opinion on Indians. I respect everything around me.
Will we see Sunny Leone producing babies?
Motherhood wont be a great decision for my body physically at this point of time. Daniel and I desperately want to have kids- but not now. I want to continue doing movies for sometime. If I get pregnant, I would be down for a year.
If you were to make an adult film with Bollywood actors, who would you cast?
I will not answer that question (laughs).