When Vidya Balan recalled the exact moment she was selected to play 'Parineeta'
Mumbai, July 5
Actress Vidya Balan made a lasting impression as Parineeta with her debut movie. However, the journey of getting her big break in Bollywood was full of roadblocks for the 'Kahaani' actress.
During an exclusive interaction with veteran actress Simi Garewal on one of the episodes of her popular chat show, "Rendezvous with Simi Garewal", Vidya recalled the exact moment she was selected for her first Bollywood project.
Vidya had already undergone numerous auditions and had practically given up on the hope of getting the film. However, fate had other plans for her.
Sharing the incident in her own words, the 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' actress said, "I was at an Enrique concert, and my cell was off, because I didn't want to be disturbed. A friend of mine was with me, who also worked with Dada, incidentally. So, Dada called him and said, "Where is Vidya? Isn't she at the concert?" So, he said, "Yeah, she is". As I picked up the phone and he said, "Mr. Chopra (Vidhu Vinod Chopra) wants to speak to you"."
Vidya revealed that she was certain he was calling to politely inform her that she did not get the part.
However, to her amusement, the filmmaker said, "Vidya Balan, you are my Purineeta. I've only been wanting to push you to get the best out of you. And I'm investing my faith in you. I know you'll always bring honor to the family."
A cinematic adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's 1914 Bengali novel of the same name, "Parineeta" also marked the directorial debut of Pradeep Sarkar.
Produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the project starred Sanjay Dutt, Saif Ali Khan, and Vidya Balan in lead roles, along with Raima Sen, Sabyasachi Chakrabarty, and Dia Mirza as the ancillary cast.
The film was released in the cinema halls on 10 June 2005.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The way Vidhu Vinod Chopra called her during an Enrique concert is just too good 😄 Shows how destiny works when you least expect it. She's one of our finest actresses!
Parineeta was a masterpiece! The era of meaningful cinema before the masala overload. Vidya Balan's debut was a perfect blend of talent and poignant storytelling. Her journey inspires many aspiring actors out there.
I've never seen this interview with Simi Garewal, but wow, what a heartwarming tale! 🥹 Her vulnerability and the way she almost gave up before the call makes it even more special. Not all heroes wear capes, but they sure dance to Enrique!
Respect for her that she auditioned so many times and didn't give up. But honestly, Bollywood should have more original stories like Parineeta instead of remakes. This film had soul.
As someone living abroad, I love hearing these Bollywood origin stories. Vidya Balan's grace and acting prowess are unmatched. Parineeta was my introduction to Indian cinema, and it set a high bar!
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