After a career spanning 12 years and 40 films, Shahrukh Khan not only tops her list of favourites but also holds "a special place" in Rani Mukherjee 's professional life. "I was considered a newcomer in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai , but Shahrukh never let me feel like one. The treatment he gave in spite of his superstar status then overwhelmed me," Rani, who made her debut with ‘Raja Ki Aayegi Baarat’ in 1996, said.
Rani said SRK had always guided her in the right direction and she had gained a lot from him.

"I respect his dedication and the extra effort he puts towards his work. I still learn a lot from him," Rani said on the sidelines of a function in Mumbai recently.

The two have acted together in several films, including hits like ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham , Chalte Chalte and Veer Zaara .

They were also seen together in the critically acclaimed offbeat film Paheli , which was based on a short story written by Vijayadan Detha.

Queried about her rapport with Saif Ali Khan , with whom she was seen in Hum Tum and Tara Rum Pum , Rani said: "In my recent film Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic it was a good experience working with him. But while doing 'Hum Tum' we had some reservations. With time, we got along well and have mutual respect for each other."

In ‘Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic’, which is releasing June 27, Rani said she essays the role of an angel who has been sent by god to bring happiness in the life of a business tycoon and four orphan children.

She had to do a lot of practice with action director Shyam Kaushal, especially for the flying scenes.

"The specialty of the role is that I have to smile throughout the film unlike my other films where I had to cry as well. Even my fans told me that they have had enough of my crying. So this film is special for me and my fans, besides, 'Thoda Pyaar Thoda Magic' is my only release this year."

The talented actress has cut short her assignments because roles don't excite her any more.

"The roles or the stories that came my way did not excite me. I don't want to do a film just for doing it or to please the journalists. There was a time when I did even three or more films at a time. I did 'Veer Zaara', 'Mangal Pandey' ( The Rising )and Black together because the roles excited me."

Her much talked about marriage plans are dismissed.

"You people are too much interested in my marriage. But let me tell you that I don't have a marriage plan for a long, long time. I want to do a lot of films now and don't see marriage in the near future."

Rani's next project is a Yashraj Films production with Shahid Kapur to be directed by debutant Anurag Singh. The yet to be titled film will go on the floors in June.

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