By Subhash K. Jha, IANS

Actor Randeep Hooda rubbishes rumours that he stopped shooting in Bangkok to get the right shirt for a scene in his latest film "Ru-ba-ru".

"The film is about a day in the life of a man who undergoes a life-changing experience. There is, therefore, no scope for much sartorial vanity. How many shirts could I change in a plot that unfolds in 24 hours?" asks Randeep.

"On the other hand, in 'Risk', which opens next month, I play a cop. Normally, cops are dressed only in khaki but I wanted to get away from the stereotype. So you'll see me as a plainclothes policeman or rather not-so-plain because I do dress in style in real life. So, why not on screen?"

Jointly produced by Raj Kaushal and Percept Picture Company, the film is being directed by Arjun Bali and stars newcomer Shahana alongside Randeep.

Randeep admits that he will not compromise with the quality of his work.

"Let me make a confession. I do believe divinity lies in the smaller details of life. I'd never sacrifice anything that will help me in creating the perfect character. If that process offends some people, so be it," Randeep told IANS.

"Having said that, I must say I don't remember giving the 'Ru-ba-ru' team a single moment of grief about anything. We had a great team headed by Raj Kaushal whose experience helped the film through political turmoil, inclement weather and heroes who threw tantrums about their clothes," quipped Randeep, whose films include "Khosla Ka Ghosla", "Freaky Chakra" and "Mixed Doubles".

Was there any truth about Randeep and his erstwhile mentor Ram Gopal Varma getting together again?

"I don't deny we've met. He offered me the role of Jai in 'Sholay' after Mohit Ahlawat was out of the project. But for your information, this is the third role I've been offered in 'Sholay'."

Was he also offered Gabbar Singh?

"Well... yes, I was offered Gabbar and later Veeru and then Jai. Unfortunately, at that point of time I was busy with 'Risk' and 'Ru-ba-ru'. Ramu and I never parted ways. He's as passionate about his work as I am about mine," said the actor.

Any regrets about not doing "Sholay"?

"But that was long ago. Later the script evolved and the characters changed profile. There's no point in dwelling in the past. Ramu and I will work together again as soon as we both find a project that suits both of us," said Randeep.