Vidya Balan’s portrayal of Bengali women in movies like Parineeta and Kahaani received critical acclaim. The Bhool Bhulaiyaa actress, who turned 47 on January 1, earlier revealed that some of her fans
believed she was Bengali, given her command over the language and understanding of local culture.
Although Balan grew up in Mumbai, the Tumhari Sulu actress said she has a deep-rooted connection with Kolkata. Vidya said she would love to return to the city of joy.
Vidya Balan says Kolkata feels like home
Vidya Balan was raised in Mumbai. She also pursued a master’s degree in sociology at the University of Mumbai. However, when she is in Kolkata, Vidya does not feel like she is away from home. “When I am in Kolkata, I don’t miss home that much,” Balan told PTI ahead of Kahaani 2.
“People are so warm and welcoming,” she added. Balan, who described her Kolkata experience as “wonderful,” recalled her debut movie, Bhalo Theko (2003) by Goutam Halder.
“My debut film was a Bengali film, even before Parineeta, so they actually think I am Bengali,” Balan said about her Kolkata fans. She was exhilarated to add that everyone speaks to her in Bengali in Kolkata.
“I show off my Bengali wherever I can. I know songs, rhymes and slang,” Balan added playfully.
Vidya Balan on the Bengali audience
In 2024, Vidya Balan returned to Kolkata for a special screening of her movie Bhalo Theko at the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). “I am so happy to have come back to KIFF for a special screening of Bhalo Theko as a tribute to our dear Gautam-da,” Balan said in a video message.
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“It brought so many memories of my time at KIFF, of watching films with the most passionate Bengali audience,” she said. Balan said she enjoyed interacting with the Bengali audience about films.
“The Bengali audience never changes. They are so passionate, and I absolutely love that,” she emphasised.
Balan won a Filmfare award for Best Female Debut for Parineeta (2005). She won a Filmfare for Best Actress for Kahaani (2012).
