 "When Vidya Balan became the most criticized Indian star at Cannes and the actress said, ‘I’m glad I did not…’")
It’s not just Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor, or Aditi Rao Hydari or Kiara Advani. There has been another Indian actor who has graced the Cannes Film Festival and it’s Vidya Balan. However, the narrative was less about her debut and more about her fashion choices that wrongfully became a topic of heated debates and discussions ever since 2007.
The Indian attires that Balan flaunted at the festival were Sabyasachi designs and the actress did ooze traditional style when she walked in those sarees. The criticism was unfortunate and unnecessary, making her one of the most polarised stars to grace the event. However, back in 2013, when she was a part of the event, she was unfazed by the criticism that came her way.
She was quoted saying back then, “ I enjoyed what I wore every time I stepped out. I loveIndian wear and I thought I would stick to it even if I am atCannes. I am glad I did not succumb to any pressure related towhat I should wear. People actually came up to me and complimented me on what I was wearing.”
It was a fabulous two weeks of my life. I had lost touchwith world cinema. I used to watch films every night. I also used to visit film festivals and special screenings but somehow I couldn’t find time anymore. But I am so happy to have got the opportunity to attend the Cannes fest as I could again catch up with world cinema," Vidya told Press Trust of India.
Vidya Balan on the severe criticism for her fashion
During the promotions of Do Aur Do Pyaar, the actress said there was a witch hunt by someone who had major issues with her. “If I have to be honest. It came from a personal issue that someone was having with me. But it’s okay. I am better for it today.”
She added, “You had to see my mother. Every time I stepped out for an appearance, I would be at the door and she would look me from top to toe and she would ask if it was okay me going dressed like that. Suddenly I would lose my confidence because I would see her nervous. Honestly, it was disproportionate because it was weight on my body, clothes that I wore, kisi ke baap ka kya jaata hai?”
With added inputs from agencies