In conversation with Mandira

CHENNAI: The glamorous cricket commentator, Mandira Bedi, launched Nokia Ke Asli Champions contest in the city at Kumararani Muthiah College of Arts and Science on Tuesday. The campaign will give an opportunity to cricket enthusiasts to watch the final match of Champions League with actor Priyanka Chopra. The entry procedures are simple; one has to score the maximum number of runs or take the maximum number of wickets in an over without the bat or ball. The video of the players will then be uploaded on a website where people can vote for the same. Interested candidates can also participate by commenting or  writing a slogan. The contest has been launched in eight metropolitan cities and only 24 people will make it to the finals. T S Sridhar, Regional Manager — South, Nokia was also present at the launch. What do you think of air cricket?I am sure every one  must have tried playing air cricket at least once in their lives. It’s a very good initiative. I scored just one run because I couldn’t time the ball. But I’m pretty certain that children will score better because they are such experienced video gamers (laughs).Which Champion’s league team do you support?I support Chennai Super Kings, and it’s not because I am here in Chennai. One of two reasons why I support CSK is because of MS Dhoni -  he happens to be one of my favourite cricketers and the other reason being CSK’s consistency in terms of performance.Your views on Chennai: I have come to Chennai many times before to host shows. Well, I’ve even acted in a Tamil movie. However, what I like most about Chennaiites is their professionalism.Are you ready for movies?I’m just a month old as a mother and so I am taking up small events for now. Once I’m completely ready, I’ll take up film projects too.What do you have to say about Parthiban and his Lingam?Yeah! That was long back. He offered me a role in Lingam and narrated a line. The character I was offered was not suitable for me and so, I had to turn down his offer. It isn’t like I committed initially and backed off later, I never committed at all. A little about your charity activities:I’m associated with a Delhi-based NGO that works for aged people.What is your fitness secret?I don’t think I’m in my regular shape now. I have to shed eight kilos that I put on after Vir’s (my son’s) birth. I workout everyday.