My silences speak

My silences speak

She receives 500 fan letters a day from Rekhaites spanning three generations, has been stalked by psychos, and even returned a Rolls Royce gifted by a sheikh. Here is Rekha - in her own words.

My ideal man Friendship, apnapan and trust are the most valuable gifts any partner can give you. I've never cared for diamonds or cars.

My ideal man? Well, he should understand me by reading between the lines of my silences. Jab tak ghanti nahin bajti hai, one shouldn't even think of getting involved.

Once a relationship is established, it's forever! I truly believe there's somebody somewhere out there for me. If we meet, that's great.

If he doesn't recognise this then too bad, it's his loss! When I find this ideal man, maybe I will celebrate with champagne in Paris - though I've never touched a drop ever - or watch the sunset while riding a camel in Rajasthan. My appeal It's my nature, my genes, my lifestyle.

I've never been vindictive, petty, bitter or selfish. I've been a cool and calm soul, and yet intense.

As a child, if there were negative vibes from other kids, I'd give them chocolates and ask, "Now can I be your friend?" I've always loved nature - with so much beauty, there has never been a minute to sulk. Once, if any of my loved ones were very ill, I'd feel helpless.

Now I've built up enough faith to survive any crisis, with the conviction that this too shall pass. I got my complexion, jawline and instinct for yoga from appakutty [her father, the late actor Gemini Ganesan]; the twinkle in my eyes, the baby-like texture of my skin, beauty spots and fondness for dance from mum; and my height [5'7"] from my grandma.

For 25 years, I've been my best South Indian self - I sleep at 10 pm, wake up at 5 am, have three proper meals, no snacking. I don't know what it is to be like a wife, mother, friend or lover; yet, those who come into contact with me, value me.

My food Dosa, idli with ghee and karapuddi. In my non-veggie days, I adored Hyderabadi haleem and seafood, which I still binge on once or twice a year.

Anything that's dark, as in chocolates. In Delhi, I love Bangla Sabhib's gehu halwa in ghee.

When in Tirupati, I can eat five laddoos at one go. I like everything Italian and #8230; except the guys.

My kink is that my man has to be 100 per cent Hindustani, with a great way of speaking Hindustani.