Hashmi, whose onscreen kisses no longer make news, hopes to redeem his career with the Bhatts’ Jannat that is due for release in May. “I have to admit that I neglected my work which is why my films didn’t work. I took up too much work and blame myself that I did not get involved with those films as much as I should have,” he says.

In the Kunal Deshmukh-directed Jannat, Hashmi plays a bookie. “I had a tough time last year but I’ve learnt from my mistakes. For Jannat, I read and educated myself on cricket and match-fixing scandals. Apart from being just an actor, I took interest in other details as well,” adds Hashmi.

A protégé of the Bhatts’ Vishesh Films, Hashmi catapulted to stardom with their 2002’s hit film Murder, where the latter’s steamy love scenes became the talking point of the nation. Though the actor was roped in by other big banners, he is yet to find his foothold outside the Bhatt camp. “Aashiq Banaya Aapne was not for Vishesh Films, yet it did well,” corrects Hashmi. “It’s just that not many people approach me with scripts that match my sensibility. I share the same ideology with Mr Bhatt and his team.”

However, the Bhatts haven’t deserted him yet, they’ve signed him on for their next, Raaz 2, a sequel of their 2002’s superhit. In the new film, Hashmi has been cast opposite Kangana Ranaut. “I have offers from other production houses as well. I will make the announcements very soon,” he adds.

While the Gangster actor’s professional life was not all hunky dory last year, he married long-time sweetheart Parveen Shahani. “She is okay with me kissing in films. She knows I am an actor and never interferes with my work,” he insists. “I fail to understand why such a hue and cry is created over my onscreen kisses while all other actors do the same thing.”