Entertainment News
23 July 2025, 10:49 AM IST
As she marks 20 years in Bollywood, Vidya Balan shares a memory of filming a romantic scene with a co-star who showed up with bad breath
In a recent interview aith Anupama Chopra that’s gone viral for its candid humour, Vidya shared one such memory from her early days on set, involving a particularly unpleasant romantic scene.
Without naming the actor involved, she recounted a day when she was required to film an intimate scene with a co-star who had clearly just indulged in a heavy Chinese meal—and neglected to brush his teeth before the shoot.
“He had just eaten Chinese food. I could smell garlic, soy sauce, everything—and he hadn’t brushed!” Vidya recalled with a mix of amusement and exasperation. “We had a romantic scene to shoot, and I kept wondering why he couldn’t just brush before coming close to me.”
The incident, though humorous in hindsight, highlights the kind of unglamorous realities actors often face in their profession—where physical closeness is scripted, but hygiene isn’t always guaranteed.
Vidya’s anecdote didn’t end there. She also revisited another formative experience: filming her first on-screen kiss. The actor admitted she was extremely nervous and apprehensive before the shoot, which involved none other than Sanjay Dutt. While such moments can be daunting for any newcomer, Vidya remembered Sanjay Dutt’s kind and gentle approach with appreciation.
“I was a bundle of nerves,” she admitted. “Sanjay Dutt really helped me through it. He was very calm and said, ‘Let’s take it step by step. We’ll go slowly.’ That made a big difference.”
Her memories reveal not just the challenges of performing such scenes early in one’s career but also the importance of empathy from co-stars. Vidya’s recollection of Sanjay Dutt’s supportive presence stood in stark contrast to the earlier story, underscoring the range of on-set experiences she’s had.
As she celebrates 20 years in cinema, Vidya Balan’s storytelling reminds audiences that even seasoned stars begin with uncertain, sometimes absurd moments. From breakthrough performances in Parineeta and The Dirty Picture to acclaimed roles in Kahaani and Sherni, she has carved a distinct space in Indian cinema. But these quirky behind-the-scenes tales, delivered with her trademark candour, offer a refreshing look at the real, raw, and occasionally ridiculous beginnings of a now-celebrated career.
Fans have been reacting with delight across social media, praising Vidya for her honesty and sense of humour. It’s not every day that an A-list star opens up about bad breath during love scenes—but Vidya Balan, as always, keeps it real.
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