What a Bollywood Star Taught Me

‘I take one day at a time. I am not someone to define my goals’ - Vidya Balan

I have so much respect for this woman. Bollywood superstar Vidya Balan is not your conventional actor. Throughout her career, she has continually broken the stereotypical notion of how a predictable heroine should be. She plays powerful characters and never shies from daring roles. Thriving in diverse and assertive roles, Bollywood actress Vidya Balan has curated a smart mix of lucrative blockbusters that grossed more than $15 million; but she captured my heart with her authenticity, compassion and her incredibly beautiful smile – from the first time I greeted her from her ride at Federation Square.

Last year, as part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, she launched the ‘Train the Trainers’ initiative which focuses on providing education to people and children with special needs in India; and continues to be a brilliant Ambassador for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.

I can relate to her in so many ways; for when I don’t fit into moulds, I create my own path. I am not like everybody else. She has given me confidence to continue being who I am – and to find peace without the approval of others. Sometimes being different is really just to be yourself. I want to succeed because of — not in spite of — my eccentricities.

Thanks to Mitu Bhowmick Lange (Festival Director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne), Vidya and I had the opportunity to share a conversation about success, dedication and humility; when she generously congratulated me on my ‘New Australian of the Year’ award on film.

She has taught me that no matter how ‘hungry’ you are (for success), you must always still share what you have. I am eternally grateful.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is here (10-22 August 2017) – www.iffm.com.au