'This was destined to happen'

Actress Karisma Kapoor says her proposed wedding with industrialist Sunjay Kapoor is a matter of destiny.

The actress, who was in New Delhi to attend the launch party of her television serial Karishma: The Miracles Of Destiny, said, "We have known each other for a long time as friends since childhood. I am happy."

She refused to answer any questions about the breaking off of her engagement with Abhishek Bachchan, announced on Amitabh Bachchan's 60th birthday on October 11, 2002.

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She claims she agreed to be associated with Karishma because it offered a challenging role. "You will see me as a child, a young woman, a middle-aged woman and, finally, a grandmother. I go through various generations. That is what I like about the serial. I am grateful to Shubrat Roy [promoter of the Sahara India Pariwar] for providing me this opportunity. Despite the fact that the serial had run into problems, shooting continued because Mr Roy was convinced that sooner or later, it would be out of trouble," she says.

She made it clear she would going to continue work in television serials and films even after her wedding, though at a smaller scale.

Sushanto, son of Subrata Roy and CEO, Sahara Media and Entertainment, told rediff.com that the 262-part serial would cost Rs 60 crore (Rs 600 million). "We have already signed contracts with advertising agencies and sponsors for the first 13 episodes. I am sure this serial will be a big hit. We hope to be the number one entertainment channel by December 2004," he says.

The serial will be launched on Sahara Television on August 25.

Karisma said her grandfather Raj Kapoor was the 'greatest showman the Indian film industry has ever produced.' She added, "He was a great director, producer and above all, a great human being. I miss my Dadu [grandfather], particularly since my wedding is nearing."

The actress said the biggest lesson she learnt from Raj Kapoor was that while shooting, you must give your best, or not shoot at all. "I am following his instructions. I am trying to give my best."

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