DNA

Jun 16: Dubai, arriving for the world premiere of 'Provoked' at IIFA surrounded by bodyguards and accompanied by her mother Vrinda Rai.

The beauty queen, who took a day off from shooting 'Guru' in Chennai, also attended a hand print ceremony to mark her presence in Dubai - her second visit to the city in 10 years. "I would have loved to come here earlier, but everything depends on my schedules. I am grateful to Mr Mani Ratnam for adjusting my dates so I could attend the function here."

Asked if she had any apprehensions about her deglamourised role in 'Provoked', she said, "I thought I had quelled such inquiries at the beginning of my career when I made my debut with the Tamil film 'Iruvar'. Although I must say that a lot of people did tell me, 'Why are you doing sari-clad roles? You should do more song and dance routines'."

Ash was all praise for Kiranjie Ahluwalia, on whose life 'Provoked' is based. "It was very brave of her to have allowed her story to be told. I think it was a huge responsibility on my shoulders to essay such a role."

Rai agreed to suggestions that it would be good idea to dub the movie in Hindi and release it in India. "I'd only be too happy, but that's a decision the producers have to take." As if on cue, producer Murli Manohar, who was sitting next to her, acquiesced.