Vidya Balan talks about her forthcoming films.

'Parineeta' changed my life.

Dada (Pradeep Sarkar) was very sure he wanted only me for the role. His confidence and faith in me really boosted my energy levels. It helps when someone stands and backs you. I had done nearly 80 ads by the time I came to an acting career, still one needs inspiration from the right quarters. He was sure no one else could play Lolita. I think people who debut at an early age have had to wait a few years to get that kind of a role. In that way, I am lucky. Touch wood.

Sequel to 'Munnabhai MBBS'!

I play Sanjay Dutt’s love interest in ‘Munnabhai Meets Mahatma’. But it’s not a sequel per se. The characters Munna and Circuit are there in this movie also, but it is not a sequel to ‘Munnabhai MBBS’. One of the great things about the film is that everyone sees it as a fresh film, including Rajkumar Hirani. It may be titled ‘Munnabhai Meets Mahatma’ or ‘Munnabhai Lage Raho’. I also loved ‘Munnabhai MBBS’. There was not a single unwanted moment in the film. Picture ho to aisi!

Parineeta role similar to 'Eklavya'!

I play Saif Ali Khan’s romantic interest in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Eklavya. To an extent yes, the similarity between the character I play in this movie and the one I played in ‘Parineeta’ is that both are very Indian. Plus like in ‘Parineeta’, I don’t have the typical song and dance routine here.

Some song and dance stuff!

I have signed Nikhil Advani’s ‘Salam-e-Ishq’ where I am cast opposite John Abraham. It is an urban love story, which revolves around the love stories of six couples. John and I play one of them.

But if people have liked me in ‘Parineeta’ it’s because I’m projected as typically Indian. I won’t try to shrug off that image just to be like the other girls. I’m aware that I’m perceived as demure and dignified after ‘Parineeta’. And that’s an image I’m happy with. I’m not here to be a teenybopper heroine. I’m looking for roles of substance.

Sheltered life!

Sometimes I feel I’ve two sets of parents. My sister and brother-in-law are more particular about how I go about my life than even my parents. It feels good to lead a sheltered life. Out here in showbiz everyone needs a support system.

My idol!

I loved Madhuri Dixit in ‘Devdas’. I’m a huge fan of hers. If I can conduct my career with half her dignity and grace I’d have achieved more than what I had thought.

Trip to Pakistan!

Yes. I went to Karachi for the launch of the Urdu version of a children’s book called Mo’s Star. It has been written by London-based international lawyer Mahnaz Malik. The proceeds of the book sale will go towards educating the needy and poor children in Pakistan.

Signed by Deepa Mehta!
I am not supposed to talk much about it. But yes, I am doing that one. It’s a comic caper.