Oh no, not again! Another model bitten by big screen aspirations?

"Well, cricketers have taken to modelling and models have turned actors. Frankly, it doesn't make a difference. Besides I've already done a bit of acting in my ad films as well since more and more ads require character models."

Okay, point taken. But where did he come from in the first place?

Sanjay spent the first 19 years of his life in picturesque Srinagar and had a proper small-town upbringing. "We packed our bags and moved to Delhi in 1990 after my father got killed by militants. I finished my education, joined an export house, started my own garment business and finally got my portfolio done because I wanted to give modelling a serious shot." That's a typical Sanjay answer -- matter-of-fact and objective about almost everything.

How did he end up inMumbai?

"I was fascinated by ad films and cinema. In Delhi there isn't scope for either. I did model for a lot of press ads there, but finally I started getting work in Mumbai and shuttled up and down for a while. Eventually I came here for good in 1997."

And did he start looking for film assignments right away?

"Actually I'd decided to do the first thing that came my way. Modelling suited me fine. I think it was a good move because it definitely gave me high visibility -- besides it's a lucrative profession." It sure is, especially if you've managed to do as many as 50 ad-films in just two years -- from Vimal and Ruf & Tuf to Wills, Ceat, Sunrise Coffee and Hero Honda.

Looks like he's everyone's favourite model. Why's that?

"The going was never really tough. I guess I had a face which suited clients' requirements -- the dependable guy next door. There are no superstars in modelling anymore -- agencies are pegging their ads on believable characters and situations."

Didn't healso do a bit of television by the side?

Yes, but not the `serials and soaps' variety. He anchored a travel show called Indian Holiday that took him across the southern and western parts of the country. "The concept required a candid look because it was all about budget travel. I remember when we went to Kerala, I was unwell and kept throwing up all along the journey. When I faced the camera I said `Hello guys, I'm feeling sick, but here we are in Kerala'."

So how did he land up in Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi?

"I got a call from Raj Kaushal last year. He gave me a narration and I was in. The fact that everyone involved with the film was new to the medium actually helped. We had a 45-day shoot and the film was done."

So, what's he doing in the film?

Playing Bugs, the intelligent, sensible, mature guy in a gang of students at a performing arts college. "When they cast the actors, they tried to find people who would fit their roles perfectly. I guess they felt I was right forthis slightly serious, reserved guy who's a romantic at heart and can do anything for his friends."

And is he really all of the above?

"For most part, yes. I think I am level-headed and slightly idealistic in terms of romance. Bugs is a man who's seen it all, which makes him a solid character -- it was relatively easy to play that part."

Any other films on the cards?

"I'll start meeting people after the film releases. But I'm already discussing a couple of projects -- we'll have to wait and see what happens."

So how does he assess his journey from Srinagar to Mumbai via Delhi?

"I belong to Kashmir and frankly its disgusting to compare it with Mumbai or Delhi -- it's a beautiful, beautiful place. But it's also one part of my life that's over -- I've no plans of going back. The present situation in the valley is an outcome of everything that's happened over the last 50 years and I want to put it all behind."

How does life in Mumbai suit him?

"I like the attitude ofpeople here -- they are very accepting. When I came here I knew no one -- didn't know where to go. Now I have many friends -- bankers, businessmen, actors and models."

So does he socialise a lot?

Not really. "I'm either at home or at work. Sometimes I do go out with my friends but otherwise I'm not into stuff like partying, pool or bowling -- though I love playing basketball. When I'm at home I end up cooking and dusting -- since I live alone. I also like to watch movies and read -- mostly books on spiritualism."

Wait a minute. What was that again? Something about spiritualism?

"I do transcendental meditation -- I got into it because of my family and now I'm addicted to it. I'm not here to take sanyas -- but I believe in the law of Karma. Our present deeds make our destiny and we are accountable for what we make of our lives."

So what's his motto?

"Dreams unlimited. I have the drive and the will to make my mark. I'm not greedy but I have a strong survival instinct. I'll alwaysdo things my way -- through proper means and channels."

Does romance or marriage fit into his scheme of things at all?

Not for the moment. "I'm single and happy."