‘IT’S AN EXCITING TIME FOR WOMEN’

Vidya Balan says age is no longer an obstacle for female actors

When Vidya Balan signed The Dirty Picture in 2011, little did she know that would kickstart a trend of women-oriented films. The 38-year-old continues to be the flag-bearer when it comes to strong female characters, as was seen in her films No One Killed Jessica (2011) and Kahaani (2012).

“I can’t believe that people still talk about Kahaani (that completes five years today) with as much passion as they did when they saw it in 2012. It’s overwhelming,” says Vidya, who has been vocal about how being married (to producer Siddharth Roy Kapur) hasn’t affected the quality of roles she is offered.

“There is a lot of work for female actors. Films centered around female protagonists are doing well. There are many opportunities, no matter what their age. It’s an exciting time for female actors, and will only get better from here.”

What has brought about this shift in mentality? The fact that women are pursuing higher education and aspiring to be more than homemakers may have done so, says Vidya. “Previously, women made the man and his family the focus after marriage, and the kids after that, leaving no time for themselves. I think women now continue to do what they want to do for themselves. Of course, it’s that much more demanding, but we are all walking the tightrope.”

Shift topic to how actors such as Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra are working in projects overseas, and Vidya shares she, too, is open to the idea. “... In the West or anywhere in the world where there is a compelling story to tell and where I am offered an extremely exciting part,” she says. “But, I haven’t made efforts towards that. I’m an actor who needs constant stimulation. I get bored easily. I need new challenges to keep me motivated,” adds Vidya.

There is a lot of work [in films] for female actors. There are many opportunities, no matter what their age VIDYA BALAN, ACTOR

PHOTO: PTI