Slumdog Millionaire has been sweeping most of the awards at various ceremonies.

It has been included in Time magazine's list of Top 10 Movies of 2008. Did you expect such a response when you were auditioning?

Not at all! I was too busy trying to make it through the audition process. I don't believe in spending time thinking about how a film will do at the box-office since that is beyond my control. I'd rather give the film my best and wait and watch.

Since your co-star Dev Patel has been winning many awards, did you ever wish that the film had centred around your character?

Not at all. This is Dev's Replica Emporio Armani first film and he deserves all the nominations he's getting. Dev's win is a win for us all.

Though you've lived in Mumbai, how much of the life in Mumbai slums came as a revelation?

There were a lot of revelations; I wasn't ignorant of life in the Mumbai slums either, since I've interacted with people from all social strata. Call me nosy, but I've always been interested in other people's lives.

Have the directors who have rejected (or not approved of your auditions) changed their stance now?

I haven't ever taken rejection in an unfavourable light. I haven't concentrated on whether I'm getting calls from those people who have rejected me in the past. I don't want to keep score. But yes, being part of Danny's film is a great validation of my talent as an actor.

Wasn't it difficult for Boyle to direct your Hindi portions since he doesn't understand the language at all?

Danny Boyle understands the human language which I think, is what's most important in film- making. In fact, Danny picked up some Hindi and started using words like 'jaldi karo'. Of course, Loveleen Tandon, the co-director, was always there if he needed.

How much does an Oscar or a Golden Globe mean to you in the context of SM's nominations?

Being nominated is absolutely amazing. The cast and crew have given this film their all. It's wonderful to see audiences and critics alike embrace our efforts.

SM is a lot about surviving in the cut-throat life of contemporary India. How much of cut-throat competition did you witness in the glamour industry? Do you think Fashion was a true portrayal of the modelling world that you come from?

I was busy touring when Fashion released. I haven't had the chance to watch it yet, but surely make it a point to do so. The entertainment industry is a cut-throat industry but like in any walk of life, just as you come by people who are genuine and helpful, you will also come across those who want to take you for a ride. It's important to hold your own and not forget the difference between right and wrong.

Deepika Padukone, Mugdha Godse and you have been the most talked about model-turned-actors. If you are to choose one model who could be the next great actor in Bollywood, who would you recommend?

Fake A.lange Sohne

I haven't focussed on other people's careers so cannot name anyone but hey, I haven't done a Bollywood film yet. So, can I vote for myself?

Rahman has been voted for the Golden Globe awards. What's your take on his music?

I like the fact that he blends in all kinds of genres of music and still gives it that AR Rahman signature. The way he's going, there can be a new genre called Rahmanism. The song that's called Latika's theme is picturised on me. It's my favourite too.

What's important for you - a film that wins the critics' votes or commercial success?

Both. A film that appeals to critics and becomes commercially successful is the perfect blend. Commercial success is very important. One can't be satisfied making a film that is accepted well by critics but doesn't work with audiences. A good film-maker will keep the audience in mind while making a film. After all, it is them who he is primarily making the film for.