Vidya Balan, known for her versatile roles, recently opened up about the unexpected consequence of portraying Silk Smitha in “The Dirty Picture.” Initially hesitant to smoke on screen, Vidya eventually found herself grappling with a newfound addiction to cigarettes during the film’s production.

The Influence of Characters

For actors, certain roles leave a lasting impact, sometimes even influencing their behaviour off-screen. Vidya Balan’s portrayal of Silk Smitha, a character synonymous with cigarettes, proved to be one such transformative experience. Despite initial reluctance, Vidya immersed herself in the role, ultimately succumbing to the allure of smoking.

In a candid conversation on UNFILTERED by Samdish, Vidya shared her journey from apprehension to addiction. Admitting her prior familiarity with smoking, Vidya acknowledged the need for authenticity in portraying Silk Smitha’s persona. The societal perceptions surrounding women who smoke added to her initial reservations but didn’t deter her commitment to the character.

From Reluctance to Addiction

Reflecting on her journey, Vidya confessed, “I had smoked before shooting for the film… but as a character, you can’t just fake it.” This commitment to authenticity gradually led to Vidya developing a cigarette addiction during the filming process. Despite her initial reservations, Vidya found herself drawn to the act of smoking, eventually indulging in 2-3 cigarettes daily.

Addressing her current stance on smoking, Vidya admitted her enjoyment of the habit, despite its known risks. Expressing a fondness for the smell of smoke, Vidya candidly shared her attraction to the act, even reminiscing about her college days spent lingering near smokers at bus stops.

However, Vidya’s revelation serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the unintended consequences of method acting and the powerful influence of on-screen personas on real-life behaviour.

Vidya’s Latest Film and Beyond

While Vidya Balan continues to captivate audiences with her stellar performances, her latest film “Do Aur Do Pyaar” has garnered mixed reviews. Despite the lukewarm response from critics and a lacklustre box office performance, Vidya’s dedication to her craft remains unwavering.

As fans await Vidya’s next cinematic venture, her candid revelation sheds light on the complexities of character portrayal and the unforeseen challenges actors encounter in their pursuit of authenticity. Amidst the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry, Vidya’s honesty serves as a reminder of the human experiences behind the silver screen.