From rxpgnews.com
No 'Hey Baby' for Himanshu's baby
By Subhash K. Jha, IANS,
May 9, 2007 - 8:04:07 AM
Mumbai, May 9 - Model-turned-actor Himanshu Malik, who did those infamous kisses with Mallika Sherawat in 'Khwahish', turned down Sajid Khan's offer to cast his infant daughter in his film 'Hey Baby'.
Himanshu had gone to Sajid for a role. 'But I ended up getting an offer for daughter Athena - to play a role,' Himanshu told IANS.
The actor had known Sajid and his sister Farah for a long time.
'Sajid and I are gym buddies. So when I heard he was directing a film, I met him. He said he had no role for me. But when he heard I was married with a seven-month daughter he immediately wanted to meet my daughter Athena.'
Matters were quickly finalised.
'Almost,' corrected Himanshu. 'Sajid's assistants came to video-test Athena on my birthday. Athena was at her pouty preening best. She was on. They were willing to offer my baby girl more money than I've seen in my entire career as an actor,' laughed the proud papa.
Then the deal fell through.
'My wife Komal couldn't get away for the dates Sajid wanted my daughter to be in Sydney. Sajid was so keen that he was even willing to re-adjust the dates when Athena was required.
'But Komal, who works with L'Oreal, just couldn't get away. And she was unwilling to let Athena go with the maidservants and me. Naturally so! How was Athena expected to be a star without her amma?'
Himanshu looks back at the experience with much pride and humour.
'Athena must be the youngest actor in the world to be offered a film, that too the title role. I'm sorry it didn't happen. But at least no one can accuse me of nepotism, ha ha!'
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