Actress Nagma, who is currently ruling the Bhojpuri film industry, reveals that she left Bollywood because of racism.

"I did what was best then! I was a girl with a Muslim name and the Shiv Sena was slowly raising its head. Moreover, a lot of inconsequential people had joined the industry. All this gave way to racism and a lot of controversies, leaving me scared and unsure about whatever work I was doing," Nagma told IANS.

"In comparison to it (Bollywood), the south Indian film industry has no yellow journalism and as far as technology is concerned, it is superior to Bollywood," said Nagma, who featured in films like "Baaghi" and "Yalgaar".

Asked how Bhojpuri films happened, she said: "I wanted to do films in different languages. I have already done movies in 10 languages. My first Bhojpuri film 'Panditji Bataayina Biyaah Kab Hoii' was a huge hit. After that the offers poured in and they were too good to be ignored."

Nagma, who reportedly received threatening calls from the underworld recently, claims she almost rules the Bhojpuri film industry.

"Bhojpuri film industry is very small - precisely eight people govern the whole industry and I am one of them. I am proud because when the history of Bhojpuri film industry will be written my name will be there," she said excitedly.

Nagma believes that compared to Bollywood, regional films give an actress ample space to push the envelope.

"Bollywood films are not much performance-oriented films when it comes to female protagonist. It is very easy to work in an ensemble cast, all you have to do is to work on your body."

Nagma denies reports that she is the bone of contention between Aryan Vaid and Ravi Kissan, as stated by Ravi on Sony TV's reality show "Bigg Boss".

"Nothing like this ever existed. These are all imaginative stories. What others talk about me is none of my business. I am a professional and will keep doing my work."

Nagma has six Bhojpuri releases lined up in 2007, after which the actress is planning to make a come back in Hindi films.

"I can't tell you exactly when but I will come back. I am looking for a top banner film as my come back vehicle."

The actress plans to venture into the field of direction as well but says she doesn't find herself ready for television as yet.