Bollywood actress Vidya Balan turns 43

January 1, 2022
2 MIN READ
A
A+
A-

Known for pioneering a change in the portrayal of women with her roles in female-led films, Bollywood superstar Vidya Balan turned 43 on Saturday.

Born in Mumbai to a Tamil Brahmin family, Vidya’s acting journey started from a young age and had her Bollywood debut in 2005 with the critically-acclaimed romantic film ‘Parineeta’ co-starring Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt in the lead roles.

For the uninformed, the recipient of several awards, including a National Film Award and six Filmfare Awards, Vidya had her first acting role in the 1995 hit sitcom ‘Hum Paanch’, which also starred veteran actor Shoma Anand.

Well, after her famous show ‘Hum Paanch’, the actor had several unsuccessful attempts before making her way to the silver screen. She made her film debut by starring in the 2003 Bengali film ‘Bhalo Theko’ and received praise for her first Hindi film, ‘Parineeta’.

This was followed by commercial successes in the 2006 comedy ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai’ and the 2007 psychological horror-comedy ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’.

With each of her films creating a new record like the 2011 biopic ‘The Dirty Picture’, Vidya thrived to be among the highest-paid actors in showbiz.

Leaving a strong imprint on her fans with her exemplary persona and impeccable journey in the cinema industry, Vidya was awarded the Padma Shri in 2014.

On the occasion of her birthday, let’s take a look back at some of the iconic movies that made her an irrepressible star:

1. ‘Parineeta’: This 2005 released romantic drama marked the debut of Vidya Balan in Hindi films. The movie is the adaptation of the 1914 Bengali novella of the same name by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. Directed by debutant Pradeep Sarkar, it was based upon a screenplay by the film’s producer, Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The film featured Vidya, Saif Ali Khan, and Sanjay Dutt in lead roles.