One of the most talented Bollywood actors of her generation, Vidya Balan has defied traditional gorgeous looks and glamorous appeal to be an actor. Unlike other actresses, she relied solely on her craft and managed to carve a niche for herself in a very short span of time in Bollywood (“Didn’t know the role of a producer while joining films, says Bollywood star Vidya Balan,” April 6, 2022, Gulf Today).

Starting her career from a television show, she went on to become a multiple-award winning actress. She is one of the few actors in the industry who has progressed from TV to cinema.

Generally it is seen that not many TV actors manage to make it big despite their good show. Vidya gave back-to-back hit films like “Paa,” “Ishqiya,” “Parineeta,” “Lage Raho Munna Bhai,” “Bhool Bhulaiyaa,” “Kahaani” and “The Dirty Picture.” With every film, she raised the bar for herself. Vidya has not only created a space in Bollywood for herself, but also inspired others to dream to be an actress.  She made it possible with her unprecedented success. She redefined the role of an actress in an industry where the hero is always worshipped.

Shreya Deshpande,
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