MUMBAI:

Casting aside her item-girl image, Rakhi Sawant has bagged a full-fledged dramatic role in Yash Raj Films’ new venture that she hopes will result in a flood of offers.

“So far my career in movies didn’t take off because I don’t have a lobby to support and sign me. That’s the only explanation I have. But people love Rakhi Sawant,” said Rakhi. “Now, I’ve finally got a film I’m proud of with the best banner. After this, I’m sure I’m going to be flooded with good offers, and not just to do item songs, although I’ve no godfather in the film industry,” she said.

Directed by Anurag Singh, the film also stars Rani Mukerji and Shahid Kapur.

Rakhi is excited about working with Rani. “She is my favourite actress. I love Rani. She’s a superstar, but so down to earth. I’m going to take blind instructions from Rani about how to do my scenes. And I’ve no ego about it.”

It wouldn’t be improper to point out that Rani had borrowed many of Rakhi’s mannerisms and speech patterns to play the tart with a golden heart in Saawariya.

Rakhi is about to be turned into a typical Yash Raj heroine and the man given the seemingly impossible job is designer Manish Malhotra.

“I’ve already started rehearsing. Do I play cricket in the film? My lips are sealed. Do I have item songs in the film? Hmmm... that would be telling. But, yes. I don’t have just one dance. I’ve three dances in this film, choreographed by the one and only Vaibhavi Merchant. They’re not just ordinary item songs. And I’m being dres-sed by Manish Malhotra. I’m so excited about working with him.

So will Rakhi be playing cricket along with Rani? “Darling, if I reveal everything now why will you pay money to see the film when it’s released?

“All the credit goes to Jesus Christ, Mother Mary, Shani Bhagwan and Ganpati. These are the

four pillars of my destiny,” Rakhi maintained.