Mallika Sherawat goes to Canes with Jackie Chan

How’s this for globalization: A Chinese superstar introducing an Indian actress to the American media in the heart of France. The star in this case, Mallika Sherawat. Having been invited by Jackie Chan to accompany him to the Cannes Film Festival in May, the scenario seems all set to be a reality.

“I can’t believe I’m being launched internationally by Jackie Chan,” says a visibly excited Mallika. “There’s going to be a party for The Myth (Chan’s movie in which Mallika plays the leading lady) on May 17 and I’ve heard Quentin Tarantino and Robert De Niro are going to be there. I really want to meet Salma Hayek and Julianne Moore, because I think they’re great actresses.”

Mallika’s excitement is palpable as she talks about her wardrobe plans. “I’ve been forewarned by my hosts that Cannes is all about what you wear. And going by the criticism a certain Indian actress has already faced for her sense of style, I’m going to be working extra hard with my designers on this one. Anita Dongre, Ashley Rebello and Ritu Kumar are a few designers who I’m going to approach. For the party, Jackie has asked me to wear something ultra glam, sexy, Indian too.”

Mallika seems to be the flavor of the season. “I think it’s very flattering to have people you respect and admire say complimentary things about you,” says Mallika. “Now let’s just see if Sanjay Leela Bhansan, Amitabh Bachchan and Farah Khan put their money where their mouth is and give me some great roles!”

Mallika’s next Bollywood release has Rekha playing her sister. How difficult was it working with the original diva? “I can make politically correct statements, but honestly, my ears are itching to hear that if not better, you were as good as the original Indian diva’,” says Mallika.

About her love-hate relationship with Mahesh Bhatt, she says: “You can’t live without him, and you can’t live with him. He drives me mad, but then gives me a dream role opposite Sanjay Dutt. Contrary to what people would like to believe, everything’s fine between me and the Bhatt camp.”

Of course, Mallika’s co-star Emraan Hashmi painted the town criticizing her and then came back to working with her again. “Mallika bashing was afraid just like George Bush bashing,” she says. “After winning the elections, Bush had the last laugh. I don’t particularly like President Bush, but do you think he cares?