I want to play comic roles: Vidya Balan

Q. Can you take us through the journey of your debut with Bhalo Theko?

A. I made my debut with Bhalo Theko in December about 20 years ago. I couldn't have imagined a better debut. I had dreamt of seeing myself on the big screen but to see myself on the silver screen in the land of Ray was the ultimate for me and couldn't have even imagined it. I had Goutam-da (Goutam Halder) to thank for that. I am glad to be at the screening (at KIFF) of Bhalo Theko as a tribute to Goutam Halder because meeting and working with him marked the beginning of my journey in cinema. He was one of the gentlest souls I have come across.

In one sequence, we needed a storm and Goutam-da had got a storm machine. But we didn't require turning on the machine as we got a real storm that night, helping us to get a very natural shot. I believe it was the magic of cinema that had happened that day.

Q. Also you could work with the legend Soumitra Chatterjee in your debut!

A. Working with Soumitra-da was very special. He used to just sit around and chat with people (on the set). He never made me feel that he was such an icon! He was always courteous to all. In front of the camera, he used to pull off scenes with such an ease and beauty that it didn't feel like he was acting.

Q. Your filmography is so diverse. How does it feel when you look back at your success in different shades of roles, from Parineeta to The Dirty Picture to Mission Mangal?

A. I am just a greedy actor who got the opportunity to work with the directors who really pushed me to give my best. They brought out the best in me. I think there are all kinds of people who exist within me (laughs). Being an actor allows me to explore those various facets through the characters I play.

Q. Earlier you spoke about how uncomfortable you were to feature in a dance sequence in The Dirty Picture. But you were courageous enough to accomplish it. How did that courage embolden you in your career later?

A. I think I was shy because I had never danced like that. But I knew I had the courage. As an actor, I feel there is nothing I won't do. If the character or the story or the director excites me, I am willing to try anything new. I never had the lack of courage but a bit of hesitation. I think I have become even more daring after The Dirty Picture. 

Q. How does it feel to emerge as a national film star beginning the career with a regional film?

A. I would like to share that I have a picture of my cousin who climbed up and took a picture with the poster of Bhalo Theko because no one was sure about my future. I didn't know whether I would even get another opportunity to feature in a film. We all (family) came together. It was so special. I was just happy. I was contended with the first opportunity but God kept on blessing me.

Q. An actor faces disparate challenges in different phases of his/her career. What's your biggest challenge now?

A. Ah.. it's not a challenge but I want to do comedy. There are a very few women-led comedy films. I hope that changes and people write exciting comic roles for me.

(Images by Avishek Mitra/IBNS)