Vidya Balan's Heartfelt Remembrances as 'Parineeta' Prepares for Grand Re-release

As the cinematic masterpiece 'Parineeta' prepares for its much-anticipated re-release, Bollywood icon Vidya Balan takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reflecting on her pivotal debut and the unforgettable experiences with her esteemed co-stars, Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt. Nineteen years after enchanting audiences for the first time, the film, based on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's classic novel, is set to grace the big screens once more on June 14, 2024.

For Vidya Balan, 'Parineeta' wasn't just a film; it was the grand initiation into her illustrious Hindi film career.

Directed by Pradeep Sarkar and produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, the movie remains a cherished milestone. Recalling her time on set, Vidya showered immense praise on Saif Ali Khan, who played the charismatic Shekhar. "Saif was an absolute gentleman," she fondly reminisced. "He was so charming, and a very, very giving co-actor.

We had a great time working together." Their on-screen chemistry, a blend of passionate love and poignant longing, captivated millions, and Vidya's words underline the genuine camaraderie that fostered such magic.

Her experience with the legendary Sanjay Dutt, portraying the role of Girish, was equally memorable, albeit in a different light.

Vidya described Dutt as a figure of quiet strength and surprising sweetness. "Sanju Sir was a little reserved," she shared, "but he was always so sweet and very affectionate." She recounted a particularly touching moment during filming when, amidst the hustle and bustle, Sanjay Dutt noticed her discomfort in the sun.

"I remember once we were shooting, and he very sweetly came and applied sunscreen on my face because it was too hot and I was getting tanned. He's very thoughtful," she added, highlighting his caring nature off-screen.

The film's timeless appeal is further amplified by its soulful music, composed by Shantanu Moitra, which continues to resonate with fans.

'Parineeta' not only marked Vidya Balan's remarkable entry into mainstream Hindi cinema but also cemented its place as a classic, lauded for its intricate narrative, stellar performances, and evocative portrayal of early 20th-century Calcutta.

As 'Parineeta' gets ready to charm a new generation of viewers and rekindle fond memories for its loyal admirers, Vidya Balan’s heartfelt recollections add another layer of warmth to this cinematic gem.

Her journey, which began with this iconic role, is a testament to her enduring talent and the collaborative spirit that brought such a beautiful story to life.