I don't think money spoils relationships. It probably makes a lot of things easier. On the other hand, success might do that, because it means you have to work far more.

I have my own bank account. What I do with my money is my business. And I also handle my husband's (Mahesh Bhatt's) money. But it's only fair that each of you know what the other is doing in terms of economic output. Marriage is management finally. You're investing now, so you should do it together, without a lot of stupid ego problems. Most Indian men can't handle the economic independence of their women. Deep down, they resent it.

Money is power to me. It means I have the power to lead my life the way I want to. I suppose it is options too. There'sa whole vista ahead of me. On the other hand, the minute you have money, you have other problems. You have tension, you owe results to people, you have more responsibility. Everything is a catch-22 situation. There are no free lunches.

Today, I don't need anything from my husband. But earlier.... yes I did question him when he completely stopped giving me work, and gave a lot to his daughter. But he said: ``I have two houses to run now, I can't afford to be self-indulgent.'' And then I thought that was completely fair, because she (Pooja Bhatt) was a more commercially viable proposition than me. In the end, he was doing it for me anyway.

I don't think I've ever done anything without consulting my husband. Whether it's on money or our life or whatever. But of course I discuss personal finance with my accountants.

My most extravagant deed? I think I just did it last week. I had booked an Indica, and now I decided to go in for a Sienna.

I go through phases of indulgence. I love clothes. But I'm verycareful with my two girls. I noticed they were just taking money for granted. I come from a middle-class background, and I don't think that ever really leaves you. I have to budget, so I have to teach them. Yes, we do have the trappings, but it's a question of attitude.

As far as my home is concerned, it's comfort that's more important than anything else. So, no gold on the walls, or gilt-edged mirrors. Not my scene.

--As told to Punam Mohandas