New Delhi, Jan 12 (IANS) Rohit Shetty, the son of legendary fight master Shetty, grew up on a staple of action movies and started his career by directing a film in the same genre. But now he is focusing on comedies.

'Comedy was always there and will stay because of the stress in our lives. Unconsciously, we are leading a very stressful life and light-hearted comedies are a respite for the common people. People lap up comedies. For more than 20 years, people have been making comedies and they will continue to do so,' Rohit told IANS on phone from Mumbai.

His forthcoming movie is 'Sunday' which stars Rohit's favourite actor and friend Ajay Devgan. Releasing Jan 25, it stars Ayesha Takia, Arshad Warsi and Irrfan.

''Golmaal - Fun Unlimited' was an out-and-out comedy but 'Sunday' is more of a thriller laced with humour. I like making masala movies,' Rohit told IANS.

Asked about his camaraderie with Ajay, Rohit said: 'We like each other. We have been working together for 16-17 years. He started his career with 'Phool Aur Kaante' and I worked as an assistant director in the movie.

'He is quite comfortable with me, but once he starts shooting for his scenes, he works like a newcomer. He is sincere and honest. He never takes things for granted,' said Rohit, who forayed into filmdom with 'Zameen' in 2003.

'It was my first film and everybody praised it, but it wasn't a box office hit. We planned it as Ajay's comeback film.'

The common factor between Rohit and Ajay is that both their fathers were stunt directors - while Ajay's father Veeru Devgan remained behind the scenes, Rohit's father worked both off and on screen.

But the young director has no intention of facing the camera. He says: 'Why do you want me to close shop (laughed)? I am doing fine as a director.'

He has already started shooting the 'Golmaal' sequel 'Golmaal Returns'.

'The film will release in July. We have shot in Goa and Mumbai. I will now shoot in South Africa in April.'