"I would be glad to turn a hero" - Punit Malhotra

He could well have stepped in as a leading man for a film of his. However Punit Malhotra, nephew of Manish Malhotra, decided to turn a director instead and started assisting Karan Johar. A few years down the line he went on to begin his career with a hit I Hate Luv Storys, only to realise a few moons down the line that a successful beginning didn't quite guarantee an easy and sustained run at a stretch.

You have been on board with Dharma Productions since the age of 19. Have you pretty much married the production house or are you open to working with others too?

(Laughs) Even if I want to then I can't since I have a legal contract with Karan! That apart, he is superb, so why should I go elsewhere? He is a humanitarian and works with you at a personal level. It is luxurious to be around him. I am happy being pampered.

Guess you have been getting some all around support from Karan Johar?

Karan has been outstanding. For both my films so far, he has stood by me like a rock. He told me that he would help me make these films regardless of what an actor or two might have to say about them. He re-assured me that he would take on the world.

Didn't you think of turning a hero yourself in the interim period?

(Laughs) Well, if you could get a producer and a director then I would be glad to do that!

Joginder Tuteja tweets@tutejajoginder