Pakistani actress Veena Malik, who is gearing up for the release of her first Bollywood film, says heroines should not shy away from item songs as it is more challenging to do them. "Not really, things are changing now. Item songs are a big challenge. Sometimes the whole film depends on an item song," Veena told reporters when asked for her reaction to Hema Malini's comment that top heroines should avoid item numbers.

"An item song is a huge responsibility and I would say that heroines should not shy away from them," said Veena at the music launch of her debut Hindi film Daal Mein Kuch Kaala Hai. "I am doing five-six female-centric films but at the same time I am doing item numbers. I did Channo, one in Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya and very soon I'll do another," she added.

Daal Mein Kuch Kaala Hai is Veena's Bollywood debut movie and when asked if it is a perfect launch pad for her, she said: "I am happy that without becoming part of a group and without the support of a man, I am making a place for myself in Bollywood. "It's just the beginning, my producers are showing faith in me. I think it's a great achievement that a girl is being offered female-centric roles." The actress has also signed the Telugu version of the Bollywood hit The Dirty Picture and will also feature in Hindi movies Mumbai 125 km and Zindagi 50-50.