Vidya, an image of the ultimate Indian woman
By Manju Mittal
Actress Vidya Balan is the perfect image of the Indian woman with an utmost feminine grace of a traditional Bhartiya naari. She is celebrated as one of the most successful Indian actress of our times. Vidya has won several awards including a National Film Award and she was awarded Padam Shri by the Government of India in 2014 for her varied and challenging roles. Vidya Balan’s another achievement was being in the jury of Cannes film festival in 2013. In addition to acting in films, Vidya promotes humanitarian causes and supports the empowerment of women.
From Parineeta to Silk Smita Vidya has captured the hearts of so many and attempted some quite challenging roles that many other actresses fear to tread. The Dirty Picture and Kahani are two such movies that are remembered for strong roles by Vidya as she created an image which is unique and different to many of her counterparts. Even when she has acted in ads Vidya happens to pick messages which are not commercial but in the interests of community’s greater good example the ones on ”˜shauchalayas’ ”“ creating awareness on ”˜toilets’ in India. She is a huge inspiration to all us who are her fans. Vidya loves wearing sarees, the beautiful way she drapes herself in some very traditional classical pieces. Personally Vidya is someone who has made me fall in love with handloom sarees myself.
Brand Ambassador of Indian Film Festival of Melbourne Vidya Balan was in Australia to attend the IFFM Curtain Raiser event last week. Here are the excerpts of an interview with her:
As I walked into the Interview room of Investment Centre Melbourne, I held my copy of my newspaper The Indian Down Under. As Vidya browsed through the pages they were moments when time just stood still. It took a while for me to adjust to the gorgeous lady in plain magenta saree with a three fourth sleeve purple blouse, her blonde curly puffed hairstyle suited and her eyes, I must add, are simply stunning. Her witty, crisp humour poured out as we compared notes.
MM: Do you have any personal goals this year?
Vidya: I have never thought in terms of goals. Things have worked out the way they have and have followed my heart. (She repeats – I always intend to follow my heart.) I just hope to keep doing in what I believe in. Personally I feel very blessed that I am living my dreams and witnessing a significant time in Indian cinema.
MM: Please tell us about your upcoming projects?
Vidya: “Hamari adhuri kahani” is my next release. It’s scheduled to release on June 12. It’s an intense love story that I have done after Parineeta which was nine years ago, It’s almost a gamble and I am quite excited about this film. Mohit Suri is a great director and most importantly I got to work with Mahesh Bhatt, I always wanted to work with him but he gave up direction before I came into films.
MM: Would you share with us your memorable moment for our readers?
Vidya: Director Pradeep Sarkar promised to sign me for Parineeta, but Vidhu Vinod Chopra was bit hesitant to take a newcomer so for months he tested me on various scenes and songs of Parineeta until one test that changed his mind and when Vidhu Vinod Chopra saw the rushes he called me and said ”˜you are my Parineeta’. That was the most memorable moment of my life.
MM: How was working with the legend Amitabh Bachchan ?
Vidya: I worked with him briefly in Eklavya and then I have worked with him extensively in Pa. I have been privileged and extremely lucky to work with him.
MM: Vidya you are the festival ambassador for Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. How do you feel being part of a festival and what are your impressions of Melbourne city?
Vidya: I love the whole feel of the city of Melbourne, it feels like home. It’s very much similar to India, the vibe, the warmth of the people, the trams and off course the Indian film festival. I feel truly honoured to be a part of this amazing festival and I love my role as its film ambassador.
MM: Besides acting in films what do you do for yourself to unwind?
Vidya: I love reading books, watching films and spending time with my family.
MM: What message would you like to put across through your films to Australians and Indians?
Vidya: Firstly I love you all. Keep watching my films. Many films which you do not see in the theatres we are bringing them to you through IFFM.
As we wrapped up the interview Vidya posed graciously for a selfie. I cherish Vidya as my most favourite actress and my few moments with her I share with you all here.
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