I upset Doctor Zhivago

Omar Sharif as the title character in Doctor Zhivago, with Julie Christie as Lara Antipova.

Kiwis reveal their up close and personal encounters with celebrities. Today Rina Mehrotra remembers the night she poked a Hollywood heartthrob in the back.

It was December 1983, I was 17, and I was lucky to be dining at the wonderful Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan with my family.

I was born in India, and had visited the country only twice since my family emigrated to Auckland.

As we walked into the opulent surroundings of the "Polo Bar" I spotted Patrick Macnee - Steed from the original The Avengers television series.

He kindly offered to sign an autograph - the old-fashioned selfie.

He told me there were other stars around, including Christopher Lee.

Although I had not heard of him, I thought it still worth chatting.

He also told me Omar Sharif was at large. They both were filming in Jaipur - a blockbuster, The Far Pavilions.

I anxiously looked around. One of the waiters sensed my excitement and advised me to not disturb Mr Sharif until he finished his meal.

He seemed to take an eternity; finally he finished and I awkwardly rushed towards him, fearing I would trip and fall out of the beautiful silk sari I was wearing.

I called out as he was disappearing out of the doors. He did not respond.

I managed to get close and pressed his back lightly with my hand - still nothing.

In desperation I pressed my index finger firmly into his back and he turned immediately.

He did look quite distinguished, all in black, but also quite annoyed. I bravely said:

"Excuse me, Mr Sharif, may I have an autograph please?"

He obliged and stared at me. I struggled a little but managed to splutter: "Loved Dr Chicago."

How cheesy I thought, but he gave me a little smile, turned and left.

I still have his autograph, which is much easier to locate than flicking through countless photos on a mobile.