Vidya Balan Shares Heartwarming Memories of Meeting Rekha While Shooting Parineeta

Vidya Balan recently took a nostalgic journey down memory lane, recalling her unforgettable experience of meeting the legendary Rekha on the sets of her debut film, Parineeta. Although Vidya was not scheduled to film the iconic song “Kaisi Paheli Zindagani,” director Pradeep Sarkar insisted she visit the set that day. This decision led to a fangirl moment she cherishes to this day.

In an interview, Vidya recounted how she and co-star Raima Sen shyly knocked on Rekha’s van door, only to be greeted with an overwhelming sense of warmth and familiarity. “She met me like we’d known each other forever. She was so lovely and continues to be so lovely,” Vidya shared, admitting she was completely starstruck by Rekha’s presence. Vidya further reminisced about first seeing Rekha’s photograph in The Times of India and being instantly mesmerized, even before she had watched any of Rekha’s films.

Parineeta, released in 2005, marked the beginning of Vidya’s illustrious career and earned her the Filmfare Best Debut Female Award. Reflecting on those early days, Vidya acknowledges the indelible mark that interaction with Rekha left on her journey. The encounter not only reinforced her admiration for Rekha but also inspired her as she blossomed into one of Indian cinema’s most acclaimed actresses.