Rekha reveals she did Parineeta only for Vidya Balan as film celebrates 20 years 20 : Bollywood News

Over the past two decades, Vidya Balan has transformed the landscape of Indian cinema, setting a new standard for leading ladies. From her debut in Parineeta (2005) to powerhouse performances in The Dirty Picture, the suspense-filled Kahaani, the heartfelt Tumhari Sulu, and the inspiring Shakuntala Devi, Vidya has consistently broken stereotypes, proving that women-led films can achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Rekha reveals she did Parineeta only for Vidya Balan as film celebrates 20 years

Last evening, the cast and crew of Parineeta gathered to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the film, including filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, actresses Rekha, Vidya Balan, Dia Mirza, and lyricist Swanand Kirkire. The celebration was filled with nostalgia, laughter, and heartfelt anecdotes from the set, but the highlight of the evening was Rekha’s touching recollection of why she chose to be part of the film.

“I asked Vidhu Vinod Chopra who was playing the lead,” Rekha shared. “He said, ‘Saif, Sanjay, and Vidya.’ I said, ‘Who is this Vidya?’ He sent me some footage, and after watching it, I called Farzana ji and said, ‘We are doing this film.’ I couldn’t take my eyes off her. Such unconventional beauty, such depth—for me, Parineeta is only Vidya Balan.” She continued, “I didn’t even know that Parineeta had been made before. For me, Parineeta will always and only be Vidya Balan.”

Rekha also spoke about the bond that grew beyond professional camaraderie: “Everyone gained success, she became a star, but I gained a daughter. During the shoot of ‘Kaisi Paheli’, she sat quietly, watching every move. After the song, she came to my vanity van, held my hand, kissed it, and said, ‘I’ve learned so much from you.’ Today, I must say—I’ve learned as much watching her.”

Parineeta, directed by Pradeep Sarkar and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is a romantic drama adapted from the 1914 Bengali novella by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. Starring Vidya Balan, Saif Ali Khan, and Sanjay Dutt, the film tells the story of Lalita, a young woman navigating love, societal pressures, and familial obligations in 1962, Kolkata. Known for its elegant visuals, soulful music by Shantanu Moitra, and nuanced performances, Parineeta remains a landmark film in contemporary Indian cinema.

This 20-year celebration not only honors the legacy of the film but also highlights Vidya Balan’s enduring impact and Rekha’s admiration for a generation-defining talent.

Also Read: Photos: Vidya Balan, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Dia Mirza, Rekha and others attend the 20 years of Parineeta screening