... says actor Sameer Soni but he clarifies that he did not consciously copy Karan Johar or any of his directors while essaying the role of a filmmaker in I Hate Luv Storys

Film and TV actor Sameer Soni (Fashion, Vivah, Baaghban) has a lot to be cheerful about these days. “I am obviously happy to be part of the successful film, I Hate Luv Storys. I know my character has been talked about a lot after the film’s release,” says Sameer, who plays a passionate director with a flair for fluffy love stories in the movie.

Buzz is that Sameer drew on the characteristics and trendy dressing style of the film’s producer Karan Johar to give his character a delightful definition. Sameer smiles wryly, “I have also heard of this but I have not imitated anyone in the film. When director Puneet Malhotra and I were discussing my role, the brief was that the character is very passionate about his films and is a tad eccentric.”

Yet, he concedes that one particular event could have probably provided fuel for the rumour. He recalls, “Karan had once come to meet us on the sets and we discovered that we were wearing identical clothes. We both had a good laugh.” He adds, “Yes, I did dress like Karan in a couple of scenes but the performance was original. Since I have worked with Karan, Rajkumar Santoshi, Sooraj Barjatya, my character was probably a blend of all three.”

Sameer also admits to being influenced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. “I saw Sanjay’s interview on television when Devdas was about to release and he talked about his film with lot of passion. While performing my scenes, I remembered him but I did not consciously copy him.”

Buoyed by his lucky streak of four successes in a row (IHLS, Fashion, Vivah, Baghban), Sameer says it was sporting of Karan to satarise his brand of cinema in IHLS. He says, “It was Karan’s greatness that he made fun of his own movies. He has a great sense of humour.”

The focus shifts from IHLS to Sameer’s real life love story. We gently remind him that he is in the news because of his romance with cinema’s 1980s sweetheart, Neelam. He says, “Everything is in the news nowadays. I even read in a paper that I was going to get married soon. After reading the news, my mom was very happy; but it’s not true.” Sameer’s mom will have to wait a bit for her son’s D-day. Sameer adds, “There are no plans to marry as of now. I want things to fall into place, then we will marry. Obviously, we are working towards it but currently I am looking forward to more movies and Neelam is busy with her jewellery designing. Let’s see when it happens.”

 — Rachana Trivedi