Trisha thanks Priyan for ticket to B'wood

Southern actress Trisha describes her entry into Bollywood as dream debut and thanks her mentor, filmmaker Priyadarshan, who launched her in Tamil movies with Lesa, Lesa seven years ago, for now introducing her to Hindi films as well.

Priyan has signed Trisha for the Hindi movie Khatta Meetha opposite Bollywood star Akshay Kumar.

"My lucky director Priyadarshan, who introduced me in Tamil movies, is giving me a break in Hindi films too. After my debut in Lesa, Lesa, I was reticent about my career. Now with a firm foot in southern cinema, things have worked out for Bollywood as well, thanks to Priyadarshan. I have a meaty role on par with Akshay in the movie," Trisha said.

The former Miss Chennai has one more reason to feel happy about her association with Akshay. Yes, she has signed on the dotted lines for two more Hindi movies to be made by the Akshay's production house, Hari Om Productions.

"I should consider myself lucky. Though I had several offers from Bollywood earlier, I couldn't accommodate the dates, as I was busy with Tamil and Telugu films. Now the moment has come and that too in a big way. Three movies and a dream debut opposite Akshay Kumar, that too directed by my mentor Priyadarshan," she says with a vivacious smile.

Asked will she bid adieu to south Indian films now, Trisha said, "No. I have done over 30 films in various south Indian languages. Why do you think I should say bye to my native?"

She also rubbished rumours that she had pulled out of Aadukalam.

"I am extremely happy to be part of the movie directed by Vettrimaran. However, if the dates allotted for the film will clash with my Hindi movies, I will have to rethink about it. But as of now, the rumours are baseless," she said.

The actress is optimistic about stiff competition in Bollywood.

"There is competition everywhere. It keeps one going. When I entered the southern film industry, Simran and Jyothika were ruling the roost. Competition makes you give your best. And I am ready for the game," she said.