She is one of the tallest actresses in Bollywood. Pooja Batra was a successful model before she made her first foray into films with Viraasat, starring opposite Anil Kapoor.
The film was a critical and commercial success, fetching her awards for her promising performance.
However, she couldn’t follow it up with a good role. She acted for films such as Bhai and Haseena Maan Jayegi and then moved on to south Indian movies, where she starred in some major hits.
She was last seen in a meaningful role as Noor Jehan in Taj Mahal — An Eternal Love Story, which fetched her the Best Actress nomination at the Screen Awards in 2006.
She is now married to US-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr Sonu Ahluwalia and has signed a couple of films including Priyadarshan’s Kashmakash.
Favourite holiday destination: Amsterdam
I think there is no city like Amsterdam. It’s alive round the clock and the night party scene is amazing.
I am a lively person and the city suits my personality. Moreover, the weather is always cool and I can’t think of a better place to escape the summer heat.
Once you get out of the urban areas of Amsterdam, you can have a great time moving towards the countryside, which is equally beautiful.
Memorable moments in Amsterdam
I was part of the KLM airline crew and was based in Amsterdam before I got into films.
I have some great memories of my workdays there with Dutch crew members in Amsterdam, and it was great fun living here.
What not to do in Amsterdam
Do not get carried away by the freedom the city gives you. Everything there looks tempting but you should know where to draw the line.
Three must-haves on a holiday
My cellphone, a few perfume bottles and a make-up kit.
Any other favourite destination?
I love the fashion scene in Paris and London.
— Abdulla Mahmood is a UAE-based freelance journalist
