Superstar Katrina Kaif has stated that her new found fame is not because of her boyfriend Salman Khan, but the credit goes to Akshay Kumar.

Talking to an Indian daily, the babe from UK says, “Tell me, apart from the first film that I did with Salman, what gives people the impression that it’s because of him that I am here? It’s Akshay who took that chance with me. Before Namastey London, Akshay was in that crucial phase of his career—on the brink of becoming a superstar. He could have easily refused to work with a newcomer like me. He supported me with nothing to gain. Whatever confidence I have gained today is what I have got from him. He is so confident of both himself and you that you don’t have a choice but to reflect that. And it’s not like Salman and Akshay are the best of friends. It’s not like they are one big happy family and that Salman recommended me to Akshay.”

She even admitted that she took a big risk in accepting a role opposite Govinda in Partner, “In Partner I was cast opposite Govinda and it was his comeback film. I respect Govinda and immensely. But how many actresses would have agreed to be cast opposite him at that point of time? I could have easily asked for Lara Dutta’s role and could have been paired opposite Salman. I dare to say that if they had to someone like Priyanka she wouldn’t have agreed for that role.”

When asked about her sudden surge in popularity, Katrina reveals, “Kareena Kapoor and Rani Mukherjee have been around for almost 10 years. Preity Zinta has been here for almost eight years. Priyanka has been around for a while too. I have just about completed three years. All other actresses have been here longer.”

In this no holds barred interview, Katrina even delved into her relationship with Salman Khan, saying, “Salman and I are very private people; perhaps I am more private than he is. We don’t talk to the media about our relationship. But this story about him abusing me is utter rubbish. Trust me, if anyone was hitting anyone, it would be me!”