Model Rajneesh Duggal talks to Monika Adlakha about his debut

How does it feel to be back in Delhi?
It's been long since I was here last. I really miss my friends, family, paranthas, Delhi winters and the luxury of wide roads.

Tell us about your Bollywood debut.
My film 1920 is a period romantic horror film and has been directed by Vikram Bhatt. It has a lot of twists and turns.

Why did you choose a horror film for your debut?
I've been approached by a lot of people, but this sounded like a perfect start.The movie is a visual treat. We will finish shooting by January.

Are you trying to run away from your chocolate boy image?
Not really I want people to know that there's . more to me than the chocolate-boy image.

Would you call it a dream debut?
In many ways, yes. Even though I didn't get to put on my dancing shoes. And I love dancing (laughs). But this is just the beginning. The next one will be an action flick.

Was acting for you a natural progression from modelling?
I have been thinking of acting for a couple of years, but I wasn't getting any substantial roles. I'd like to work with new directors. I loved the way Johnny Gaddaar has been treated. Indian cinema has seen a lot of change. It's the perfect time to enter.. mazaa aayega.

Muzamil Ibrahim made his debut recently. Did you see his film?
I saw his film Dhokha, first day last show. We're good friends. He's a very good guy.

Of the two of you, who do you think is a better actor?
Hmm.. I guess the industry will have to make space for two big people (laughs).

Has your wife Pallavi seen you act?
She hasn't accompanied me to any of my shoots, but she'll come to Yorkshire soon. She's excited about my entry into films.

Have you come across casting couch?
Luckily not, I think Grasim saved me from it. But when I had just started out, a gay man did approach me and I slapped him. I didn't know what to say. It declined after that as the word spread