Birthday message for Amitabh from London

Mumbai, Oct 10 (IANS) Newcomer Jiah Khan who is set to make a racy debut in Ram Gopal Varma's "Nishabd", the Indian version of "Lolita", opposite Amitabh Bachchan has sent birthday wishes for her co-star from London.

"We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. My first little treasure has been working with Amitabh Bachchan in my first film, Happy Birthday, Mr. Bachchan," said Jiah in a press statement.

Amitabh turns 65 Wednesday.

Jiah has already set Bollywood afire with her sensuality and her devil may care attitude. In fact, people are already talking about her performance as an 18-year-old in love with a much older person in "Nishabd".

Recalling her first meeting with Amitabh, she said: "Meeting Mr. Bachchan for the first time was nerve racking but he has the ability to calm your nerves. He makes you feel settled which is vital for an actor. Throughout my first shot with him I only remembered his performance in 'Black'.

"I have learnt more from him than I learnt at Lee Strasberg Institute of Acting. He is a genius of an actor and watching him act before my eyes was like watching Da Vinci paint."

Jiah liked his role in "Zanjeer".

"He was very sexy in 'Zanjeer'. He had the persona of Clint Eastwood in the film. As an actor he sets a perfect example for someone like me. I am grateful for his presence and feel a sense of gratitude towards him."

Talking about her pairing with the senior actor in "Nishabd", she said: "'Nishabd' will surprise a lot of people. The film is a highly emotional and intense drama and acting opposite him was such a wonderful experience. He guided me to scale emotions to that height. He was very patient with me since I was facing the camera for the first time."

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