Shilpa Shetty, in a recent interview from London, says her life has taken a 360 degree turn after UK reality show.

Following her success on the UK reality show Celebrity Big Brother, Shilpa Shetty now finds life a whirlwind of activities. Even as she was speaking, British MP Keith Vaz calls to brief her on her upcoming meeting with British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

How much have you changed post-Big Brother?

I am the same old Shilpa, but people around me have changed.

How does it feel to be a famous Indian internationally today?

It's a new high, new phase, and a new life for me. Earlier, I was only recognised by the Asian community here but now to be chased by the paparazzi, to be acknowledged by the Britishers is a strange feeling. Recently, when I walked the red carpet for a film premiere, the crowd screamed as I stepped out. I was choked with emotion.

You really evoked the racism issue globally.

Every non-white is a victim of racism, but nobody talked about it till this happened. Unconsciously, I proved to be the catalyst. But again, I wasn't a victim of racism. And those three girls were not racist. They were young insecure girls trying to be nasty to me.

Have you tried meeting Jade Goody?

No I haven't really had the time. I've heard that they have gone into hiding and people are pelting stones at their houses. Jade (Goody) was in rehab, but now she is out. I hope all this settles down. But I am glad that Indians are looked with more respect now.

Cynics say you appeared fake in the show.

It's not possible to put up an act 24x7. On the contrary, I conducted myself quite responsibly. I read that Faroukh Dhondy commented on this. Pray who is he? And how well does he know me to make a loose comment like that?

Some say that you went there for money, while others say it was to revive your dying career.

Yes, they paid me my price. And what reviving career are we talking about? It's just another lucrative job for me. Don't we all look for opportunities in life?

Will Bollywood get second-hand treatment?

Bollywood is synonymous with me, how can I disown it?

Are you signing a comedy with Hollywood actor Hugh Grant?

Nothing has been signed officially. I am under a confidentiality contract and I have to abide by it.