Bollywood actress Vidya Balan has completed 20 years in the film industry, and she continues to remain one of the most respected and busiest stars. Known for powerful performances in films like The Dirty Picture, Kahaani and Sherni, Vidya recently spoke about her journey, struggles and the lessons she learnt along the way.
Speaking in an interview, Vidya recalled that she entered films at the age of 26 with Parineeta, which changed her life overnight. Offers started pouring in, but along with success came criticism. “Many people told me to lose weight. I troubled my body a lot to fit in. Later, I realised I must accept myself as I am. No matter what people say, I should be myself,” she said.
Her life also changed after meeting producer Siddharth Roy Kapur, whom she married. “From then on, I started loving myself. Once you love yourself, no criticism can affect you,” she explained.
Vidya Balan also shared how she faced tough choices early in her career. When director R. Balki asked her to play Amitabh Bachchan’s mother in Paa, close friends warned it would ruin her career. “But I followed my heart and took the role. It turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of my career,” she said.
She added that she takes pride in being associated with strong female-oriented films. “I had no film background. I came here only because of my passion for acting. There were many struggles and setbacks, but I moved forward with patience,” Vidya revealed.
Interestingly, Vidya was first offered roles in South Indian films, including opposite Mohanlal in Chakram, but she was replaced. Some even labelled her “iron leg” (unlucky). But after Parineeta, she became an overnight star.
Her advice to newcomers is simple: “Be yourself. Don’t change your personality because someone tells you to. Even if life doesn’t go as planned, accept it as a lesson. Only you know what’s best in you.”
