Author Chetan Bhagat, a Salman Khan fan, is making the film Hello based on his book One Night @The Call Centre with Atul Agnihotri. And, naturally, he hoped some big actor would play his role. Atul approached brother-in-law Salman, who had read the book and was taken up by Chetan’s character in it, with the project. Salman had only one question: “Can I play Chetan’s role?” That was that. Salman, the ‘author’, took questions from BT on the sets while Chetan looked on...

Films or television, what brings out the best in Salman the actor?

Whatever makes me connect with the people... and it’s nice if I get a little bit of a chance to improvise. Television gives me the chance to do that.

God Tussi Great Ho didn’t do well at the box office...

I feel that publicity is more important than spirituality! Because God was not promoted well, the film didn’t do that well.

You’re an impulsive person...

Yes, I am impulsive and I take my decisions instantly. The gut feel is very important but I’d rather do something and then if it’s a mistake, accept that it’s a mistake rather than not do anything at all. If I see someone drowning or dying, I have to make a decision right there. I don’t have the time to deliberate.

When are you planning to settle down with Katrina?

There is a right time and right place for everything. When that moment comes, I will feel it.

When did you realise that there was a painter in you?

Since the time I saw art being sold for enormous prices. I realised that I could use this money for my foundation.

You’ve got along well with Abhishek Bachchan recently...

I’ve known Abhishek for years, so why wouldn’t I have gotten along?

What’s your exercise regimen like?

I work out everyday, 90 minutes of vigorous exercise and all days of the week irrespective of the time... even if it means that I don’t get more than four hours of sleep a day.

Do you get sick of all the media attention?

Do I get sick of the fuss around me? Yes, I do, but I’m glad that it’s happening, because the day it doesn’t, that means it’s all over.

What kind of girls do you go for?

I like simple girls. The simpler, the better.

What do you feel about the whole rat race, about people jostling for the top position?

I treat this as my passion and hobby. I love what I do. That’s all that matters and that’s all that ever will.