Key Points

Vidya Balan looks back fondly on her debut film 'Parineeta,' sharing funny anecdotes about director Pradeep Sarkar. The film, now restored in 8K, is set to re-release in theaters. Sanjay Dutt also reflects on his role and the emotional connection he had with the project. Fans can relive the magic of this timeless classic later this month.

Key Points: Vidya Balan Recalls Pradeep Sarkar's Funny Direction in Parineeta

  • Vidya Balan reminisces about Pradeep Sarkar's quirky acting demonstrations
  • Sanjay Dutt reflects on his Bengali character Girish
  • 'Parineeta' restored in 8K for a new generation
  • Film re-releasing in PVR INOX cinemas on August 29
3 min read

Vidya Balan reveals why she cracked up during director's briefing for 'Parineeta'

Vidya Balan shares hilarious behind-the-scenes moments from 'Parineeta' as the classic film gets an 8K restoration re-release.

"Dada, you don’t need to teach me how to walk – Vidya Balan on Pradeep Sarkar's direction"

Mumbai, Aug 5

Actress Vidya Balan is getting nostalgic as her Hindi debut film ‘Parineeta’ is set to re-release in cinemas in 8K restored print.

Taking a leaf from the past, the actress said that she always used to crack up when the director of the film Pradeep Sarkar acted out scenes to her particularly the walk of her character.

The film has been restored by Prasad Film Labs, bringing its rich visuals and evocative storytelling back to life for a new generation. A new trailer of the film has also been unveiled, celebrating the film's timeless appeal, beauty, soulful music, and the nostalgic elegance of a an era.

Talking about the new trailer, Vidya Balan said, “I remember listening to ‘Piyu Bole’ for the first time; even then, I knew it was something special. There was a softness to it, a kind of innocence that I guess mirrored how I was feeling at the time, new, unsure, and quietly hopeful. Watching the trailer now, that melody brought back memories… the shooting of the scenes with (Dada) Pradeep Da screaming instructions from behind the monitor and how he’d act out moments and expect us to follow. His walk as a woman in my scenes always cracked me up, I’d be like, ‘Dada, you don’t need to teach me how to walk’ (laughs)”.

“I guess, I wasn’t aware of the camera, I was just living those moments. I truly couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful debut. That kind of purity, the magic of a 1st Uff, ‘Parineeta’ is full of that because it marks the 1st for many of us, and that’s something I’ll always hold close”, she added.

Talking about the film, Sanjay Dutt said, "Girish was my first Bengali character, and I was very happy to play it. I love Bengali culture. Girish was a quiet guy, but there’s a lot going on underneath, and I really connected with that. Pradeep Dada was solid; he was always there to guide me through every beat of the script. I love him and miss him. I was happy that Vinod offered me the film, as I have had a very successful association with him”.

“He is family. Some scenes might look simple now, but they weren’t easy at all. Watching the trailer today brought everything back twenty years later. Parineeta was never just another film for me. It was made with a lot of heart and a lot of love, and that’s why even two decades on it has a special place in everyone’s heart”, he added.

The restored version of ‘Parineeta’ will be re-released in select PVR INOX cinemas across India on August 29, 2025.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Such a nostalgic piece! But I wonder why they're re-releasing old films instead of making new quality content? Our industry needs fresh stories too.
A
Ananya R
Pradeep Sarkar was a genius! His attention to detail was unmatched. That scene where Vidya walks in the rain still gives me goosebumps. True classic!
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Sarah B
As someone who discovered Bollywood later in life, I'm excited to watch this restored version! The trailer looks beautiful and I've heard so much about the music.
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Vikram M
The Bengali culture representation in this film was so authentic. Shantanu Moitra's music still plays in my playlist after all these years. Pure gold!
K
Kavya N
Vidya's chemistry with Saif was 🔥! This film showed that you don't need item numbers to create magic. Simple storytelling at its best. Will definitely take my daughter to watch this!

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