I was destined to be in Bollywood: Brazilian Bruna Abdulla

New Delhi, July 3 (IANS) Brazilian model Bruna Abdulla has been a VJ, done an item-number and also featured in a reality show. But destiny, she said, knocked only when she got the big screen break in "I Hate Luv Storys".

"When I packed my bags for Mumbai, all I knew was that I wanted to be a model. Not even in my faintest dreams had I dreamt about grabbing a role in such a big project. I just don't know exactly how I am here, but I guess it was destined," Bruna told IANS in a telephonic interview from Mumbai.

The 23-year-old started her career as a model and then hosted a show called "India's Hottest" for Channel V. She then featured in an item-song "Rehem Karen" in "Cash", but an unexpected call from Punit Malhotra, director of "I Hate Luv Storys", changed her life.

"When I went to meet Punit, I was nervous because I was expecting someone senior to me. But I got the shock of my life when I saw a very young lad, dressed in a funky T-shirt, rugged jeans and sneakers," said Bruna.

As the model hails from Brazil, her Hindi is not so perfect, but she taught herself by watching Hindi movies and listening to Bollywood songs.

"At the audition, Punit gave me a script. He wanted me to deliver the dialogues in Hindi. I requested him to give me a day to rehearse, so that I can give my best shot. I understand the language, but speaking was difficult."

"When I had come to India, I couldn't understand the language. Everything sounded same to me. But I can proudly say that I am learning and it is going to be much better in coming years," she added.

So how was it sharing space with Sonam Kapoor and Imran Khan, who are in the lead roles.

"Well I knew Sonam ever since I landed in India. She is my boyfriend's best friend. So working with her was fun. She was very encouraging and sweet," said Bruna.

"Imran is a very shy guy like me. But he has got this great sense of humour. He always used to play pranks on others. You know what, Avantika (Imran's fiancee) is a real sweetheart. She used to come and light up the sets. She is very lively. Thanks to her, sets used to be real fun."

Don't you think you were overshadowed by the lead stars in the movie.

"Well, when I met Punit, he had made it clear that I have a very small role in the film, but it is a very important character. So there is no question about disappointments," she said.

"And to tell you frankly, I have learnt a lot through this movie. How the camera works, what angle you should be taking. Movie making is a lot of hard work."

What next?

"Right now I am enjoying every moment of it. I am a very shy person and when I saw myself on the big screen for the first time, I felt good...and I hope that people do like me in it. I don't know exactly what next after this. But I just hope there is something nice in store for me."

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I Hate Luv Storys