In the glitz and grandeur of Bollywood, superstitions and strange occurrences are not unheard of. Amongst these tales, acclaimed Indian actress Vidya Balan recently shared an unusual anecdote from one of her film experiences. Known for delivering powerful performances in several blockbuster films, Vidya has also had her share of quirky behind-the-scenes encounters.
During a candid chat on comedian Raunaq Rajani’s talk show ‘Relationshit Advice’, Vidya Balan revealed a peculiar ritual followed by a director she once worked with. In a surprising confession, she recollected how the filmmaker, driven by superstition, donned the same pair of shorts every day for an entire 42-day film schedule. Though Vidya herself didn’t initially notice, it became the talk of the set among the crew members.
The conversation took an amusing turn when the show’s host inquired whether the ritual had managed to bring success to the film. Without missing a beat, Vidya wryly responded that despite all that dedication, the film ultimately failed to strike gold at the box office, much to the amusement of everyone present. When pressed for more details, such as the name of the film or the director, Balan, with a chuckle, dismissed the question by stating she had forgotten the names.
But superstitions in cinema were not limited to directors and their wardrobe choices. Vidya herself was once ensnared by the whispers of bad luck in the early days of her career. Before making a successful entry into Bollywood with ‘Parineeta’, Vidya was set to debut in Malayalam cinema with the film ‘Chakram’ opposite the superstar Mohanlal.
Her association with the legendary actor made her an instant sensation, and offers for a dozen films swiftly followed. Unfortunately, fate had other plans. ‘Chakram’ was abruptly shelved due to production issues, and Vidya, being the newcomer, was singled out as the harbinger of misfortune. This unfounded superstition led to her removal from all other projects she had been signed on for.
However, the tide turned for Vidya with the critically acclaimed film ‘Parineeta’. It marked the onset of a remarkable journey. Vidya went on to deliver a series of unforgettable performances in movies like ‘Kahaani’, ‘Tumhari Sulu’, and ‘Sherni’. Her compelling role in ‘The Dirty Picture’ not only won her the National Award for Best Actress but also solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the film industry.
Her relentless spirit and talent eventually cleared any misconceptions about her bringing bad luck. Vidya has not just triumphed over the hurdles but has also been a part of the esteemed Cannes Film Festival Jury. Throughout her illustrious career, she has been at the forefront of championing female-led narratives in Indian cinema – a testament to her resilience and dedication.
As Vidya Balan’s recounting of the 42-day shorts saga shows, the path of filmmaking is strewn with a blend of beliefs, oddities, and idiosyncrasies. Yet, her career trajectory from an unfairly stigmatized actress to a celebrated national icon is a narrative of true grit overcoming superficial superstitions. Her tale serves as an inspiring reminder that the course of cinema, much like the destiny of its stars, cannot be contained by the confines of mere shorts, whether worn for a day or forty-two.
