
Vidya Balan had the audience laughing during a recent event in Bengaluru with her humorous stories. She mentioned how her comedy videos on social media have gained popularity and expressed her love for comedy both as a viewer and performer. She highlighted the lack of comedic roles for actresses in current cinema, reminiscing about iconic comedic roles played by women in the past. During the session, she discussed her fascination with portraying diverse characters, her passion for character preparation, and the importance of self-acceptance regardless of body size.I have struggled with body image issues since childhood, being a larger girl. However, after watching The Dirty Picture, I had a realization that one's body size does not determine self-worth. It was a liberating moment for me, altering not just my perception as an actor but also as an individual. I learned to appreciate my body as the vessel that keeps me alive. My sister Priya serves as a role model to me; she exudes comfort, confidence, and wisdom in her own skin. Women, being constantly engaged in multiple roles such as mother, sister, wife, have a unique advantage as actors. We are adept at tapping into different aspects of ourselves and portraying diverse characters on screen. Films are often inspired by real-life events rather than the other way around. Society, not films, influences and reflects social norms. Cinema shouldn't solely bear the responsibility of shaping societal morals, as only a small percentage of the population watches the biggest blockbusters.