Deepika Padukone's dinner date

Actress Deepika Padukone is keen to take filmmaker Imtiaz Ali out for dinner. But don’t let naughty thoughts run wild with imagination. The Bollywood hottie is quick to reveal that the real reason to treat him is the success of her last outing Cocktail. And knowing what a big foodie Imtiaz is, Deepika thinks it would be the best way to thank him.

According to sources, Deepika’s role in the film as the sexy Veronica had won her accolades from critics and had even resonated with the audience. And to think of it, the actress was initially set to play the docile Meera instead, which seemed like a safer bet in comparison to the feisty Veronica, according to production insiders.

Deepika admits that playing Veronica seemed more of a challenge. “I knew that the film would be liked, but didn’t think that my character would be loved so much. I owe it to Imtiaz, as it was he who coaxed me to choose Veronica when I had the choice of both the characters. Had it not been for Imtiaz I would have chosen to play Meera,” says Deepika, who is now keen to thank Imtiaz for it.

Point out that her bikini avatar had also gotten her extra brownie points and she says that though donning a bikini onscreen was no big deal, getting into that perfect shape and looking bikini-perfect was, she laughs. “But I trusted Homi (Adjania) and Imtiaz completely,” added Deepika.

And now she is keen to express gratitude towards Imtiaz, who insiders reveal is equally fond of her. “They share a special bond, ever since they worked together on Love Aaj Kal. Deepika always looks for career advice from him and has great respect for him. Now Deepika is really keen to take him for dinner, but both of them are very busy with their respective projects at present. So the wait is on for both,” says a source.