I unwind by hanging out with friends. Good food, good wine. I've bought some land in Coonoor -- it's so lovely. I'm a spendthrift. I spend in anticipation -- me and my mother. When we're depressed, we shop; when we're happy, we shop. Books, music, whatever. I love candles and chimes. I just love beautiful things. And things I have no use for. I'm fond of eating. I'd like to open a restaurant, have impromptu parties.

Money means freedom. I realised that from the fact that my parents separated when I was young. My father is a fair man, so there were no financial problems. But I knew. My mother is fiercely independent, although she's never worked. It's very important for a woman to know she can walk away. She must have financial independence. You can't get sick about money. But it's important. It's a way of protecting yourself. Money is also power, in the sense that you need a great lawyer, or a great CA, or a great doctor, and you can have them. Financial security is very important.

Of course I like money. It buys me all my luxuries. From the age of 15, I've been modelling, so when I'd go out, I wasn't asking my mum or dad for money. If I decide to blow it on something ridiculous, it's my money - I don't regret it.

My most treasured possession are my South Sea pearls. It cost quite a bomb, and I was only 20 when I bought them. My hand was shaking when I signed the cheque. I like nice jewellery -- I'm a solitaire girl. And when I commit to something, then I find the means to buy it. I've bought my serious jewellery for my 20s. Now I'll wait to buy for my 30s.

If it's an issue, yeah money tends to spoil relationship, it's wrong anyway. I don't think most people have a healthy attitude towards money. I personally don't like handling it.

Money is a basic need, you can't do without it. I can go to Goa and all that, but I can't make a lifestyle out of it. Anything is evil....money, alcohol, a man in your life....too much of anything. Money can't rule your life.

If someone left me a million dollars? Oh man, I'd blow it up. Take my friends and hit the shops. Spin the globe and go where it points. First class.

-- As told to Punam Mohandas