This actress is Bollywood’s most acclaimed actresses, faced years of rejection, losing 12 films in a row before finally rising to fame with Parineeta.
Published: October 7, 2025 6:09 PM IST
Renowned Bollywood actress Vidya Balan has carved a niche for herself in the film industry. With her refined acting, Vidya has captured the hearts of audiences. Her acting has earned her a place among Bollywood’s finest actresses. However, few fans may know that this actress began her acting career not on the big screen, but on the small screen.
Early Career and ‘Hum Paanch’ Days
While Vidya Balan was pursuing her studies, she received an offer for the 1995 show “Hum Paanch.” Her mother was against her pursuing acting, but since it was her favorite show, she agreed. After working on it for a year and a half, Vidya left the show and focused on her studies. However, she then received an offer for a Malayalam film. Following this, she was signed for a dozen South Indian films. However, for some reason, she lost all these films, and she would often cry profusely to God.
Film Debut Was to Be with Mohanlal
After taking a break from the small screen, Vidya went to Kerala for an ad shoot and was offered a role in the film “Chakrabha” alongside Malayalam superstar Mohanlal. However, the film never materialized. With the announcement of this film, she was signed by producers in South Asia for 12 films. However, one after another, all of these projects were taken away from her. This was a huge blow to the actress.
Used to Make a Plea Before God
The loss of a dozen films at once had Vidya’s morale completely shattered. During that difficult time, she would visit a temple near her home and cry profusely before God. While sobbing, the actress would plead for film work. She was confident that she would find work, and then she made her Bollywood debut.
Gave Many Great Films in Bollywood
Vidya Balan made her Bollywood debut with the 2005 film “Parineeta,” starring alongside Sanjay Dutt and Saif Ali Khan. In her 20-year Bollywood career, the actress has delivered such notable films as “Mission Mangal,” “Tumhari Sulu,” “Kahaani,” “The Dirty Picture,” “No One Killed Jessica,” “Ishqiya,” “Paa,” “Bhool Bhulaiyaa,” “Heyy Babyy,” and “Lage Raho Munnabhai.”
