Woman of the world

She strongly believes that every woman should have her own identity. Actress Vidya Balan, who was at the Radio One studio for her next release's promotion, talks to CS about women who influence her and the changing role of women in Indian cinema:


Pic/ Santosh Nagwekar

Changing image
Indian cinema is on the path of improving the perception and portrayal of women in the Indian society. Earlier women in Indian cinema had an apologetic image. They were depicted as mute sufferers, completely dependent on the protagonist, ie the hero. But in the real world today, women are at par with men in all areas. And this is what is being reflected in cinema today. I am more than happy to be a part of this change. And contrary to what people believe, I don't pick up women-centric roles, rather, I like to work in films with roles that are an extension to my personality.

Strong hold
Every woman, a housemaid or a corporate leader, who's managed to live life on her terms impresses me. All through my life, there have been different women who've made a mark on me. My mother, Saraswati, for sure is one of them. I have immense respect for her. Her only mission in life was to be a good mother. She's given us the best of everything. And like with any other child, my mommy's the best too. I don't know if I can ever be as good a mother as she has been to us.

Another person to have a hold on me is my elder sister Priya. She's one person who I want to emulateu00a0-- the way she carries herself or the way she gels with people around her. Her opinions matter to me the most; to an extent that her disapproval can shatter me, whereas her appreciation can put me on cloud nine.

And there is Amma, the hugging saint (Mata Amritanandamayi Devi), who spreads unconditional love, irrespective of who the receiver is. She reminds me everyday of the fact that there is only one religion in the world and that is the religion of love.u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0u00a0

Reality bites
I strongly believe and advocate that women should find their own identities. And I would love to bring such women alive on screen. I remember an incident a few months back when a girl was shot dead at night while commuting. A person in power said that she shouldn't have been travelling so late. But is that the issue?

Shouldn't our government provide us with this basic security? What I find extremely irritating is the chalta hai attitude. We don't hold anyone accountable for such unfortunate events and that is what I hope to bring to the fore, hoping that things will take a turn for the better.