Abhay Deol takes Salsa lessons for 'Ayesha'

Aug 12, 2009 Subhash K. Jha

Mumbai, Aug 12 (IANS) From Salsa lessons to riding classes - Abhay Deol, who is back here from New York to shoot "Ayesha", is neck deep in preparations for the film that is going to hit the floors Aug 27.

Director Rajshri Ojha direct the delayed project of Anil Kapoor's production with Abhay and Sonam Kapoor. The film is said to be an adaptation of Jane Austen's novel "Emma", about the perils of misconstrued romance.

"I know there were rumours about the future of the film. There always will be rumours about everything. I'm taking Salsa lessons for my character from my choreographer Ashley Lobo. After this, I've to start taking riding lessons. So work is on full swing," Abhay, who made it big with "Dev D", told IANS.

The actor admits he hasn't read Austen's novel as part of his preparation for "Ayesha". "But all of Jane Austen's heroes have some distinctive traits."

"Ayesha" would seem like a far more conventional film than the quirky off-mainstream character he has been playing. "You forget, I started my career with a romantic comedy. Imtiaz Ali's 'Socha Na Tha'," he said.

After "Socha Na Tha", Ali and Abhay drifted apart. "When he has a script for me, he'll tell me I'm sure. Both of us are busy with our own films," said the actor.

"Ayesha" will be shot in Delhi, Mumbai and Rishikesh. So Abhay will be in India for a while. "I've to go to the US back in October. I've other acting offers in Mumbai. But I'm in no hurry to sign. I'm right now focussing on my production house, besides 'Ayesha'."

Abhay wants to buy an apartment in New York. But the kind of money that he's offered in Bollywood won't pay for the home in the US.

"I've looked at a place that I like in New York. But it's too early to buy any property. I need to earn money first. That's why I'm starting my own production house Forbidden Films, so I can work for myself and pay myself with the profits and really get to know my market value. Everybody needs money. I'm not here to do charity."

Abhay has finished a script and he's now looking at a director for his first production.