Vidya Balan Suggests Male Actors Are ‘Uncomfortable’ with Women Taking Center Stage in Films

Vidya Balan has made a mark in the film industry by starring in several female-led movies, such as The Dirty Picture, Kahaani, No One Killed Jessica, and Sherni. Currently, she is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film, Do Aur Do Pyaar. In a recent interview with The Indian Express, Vidya opened up about the reluctance of male actors to share screen space with her in lead roles.

When discussing the excitement surrounding female-centric films compared to those led by male actors, Vidya expressed her thoughts, saying, “Back in the day? (rolls eyes) I don’t think they’d be okay, even today, to star in a Vidya Balan film or a female-led film for that matter. It’s their loss honestly because we are doing better films than they are. I genuinely believe that. They are doing more formula-based films, whereas women-led films are far more exciting.”

Despite receiving appreciation from viewers, Vidya acknowledged that male stars often feel uncomfortable with women taking the center stage. She added, “I don’t think they’d be okay with anyone stealing the thunder. But I never felt bad. I was like, if they are threatened, what can I do? (laughs)” Throughout her illustrious career spanning decades, Vidya has carried numerous female-centric films that have achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Some notable films include Ishqiya, No One Killed Jessica, The Dirty Picture, Kahaani, Tumhari Sulu, Sherni, and Jalsa. Vidya even won a National Award for Best Actress for her outstanding performance in The Dirty Picture.

In Do Aur Do Pyaar, Vidya shares the screen with talented actors such as Pratik Gandhi, Ileana D’Cruz, and Sendhil Ramamurthy. Directed by Shirsha Guha Thakurta, the film explores the themes of marriage and extra-marital relationships. The much-anticipated movie is set to release in theaters on April 19.

Apart from Do Aur Do Pyaar, Vidya Balan has also signed on for a horror-comedy titled Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, which stars Kartik Aaryan and Triptii Dimri. Fans can look forward to seeing Vidya in this exciting project as well.