Parag Maniar (BOMBAY TIMES; March 12, 2014)

Syed Ahmad Afzal’s Youngistaan will see Neha Sharma playing the Prime Minister’s (essayed by Jackky Bhagnani) live-in girlfriend. She says it was the unconventional role that made her accept the offer instantly.

 Says the actress, “Something like this has never been seen on screen. I am sure the audience will empathise with my character, Anvita, and her trials and tribulations. Her whole life changes when her boyfriend, with whom she was living in Japan, is compelled to become the Prime Minister of India. He is then unable to devote time to her because of his tight schedule. Also, being a public figure, all his moves are scrutinised, which worsens the situation.”

 However, in personal life, Neha would not be comfortable being in a live-in relationship. She explains, “I have immense love for my parents and would never do anything that would hurt them. Also, our society is still traditional and I would like to follow norms.”

 She adds, “Having said that, I don’t see any harm if a couple chooses to live in. If there is true commitment, marriage is just a certificate.” Besides Jackky and Neha, the film also features Boman Irani, Kayoze Irani and the late Farooque Shaikh.

 Youngistaan, produced by MSM Motion Pictures and Pooja Entertainment and Films Ltd, releases March 28.