More than challenging, it was 'extremely exciting' to play 'Begum Jaan': Vidya

By Pallavi Soni New Delhi [India], April 12 (ANI): Vidya Balan, who is gearing up for the release of the highly anticipated film 'Begum Jaan', says playing a brothel's 'madam' in Srijit Mukherji's directorial was 'extremely exciting' for her. During an exclusive conversation with ANI, the 'Dirty Picture' actress said, "It was extremely exciting to play 'Begum Jaan' because she is the most powerful character I have come across - onscreen and off-screen. I don't think I have met women with this kind of flourish in attitude. She does not care about anyone or anything. I think her power lies in that." "She is complete in herself; she stands for herself. She is happy to have put up fight on her own. I have played lot of strong characters, but she is the most powerful one. Therefore, you can call it challenging or the toughest. But I think it was the most exciting character I have ever played," added the 38-year-old. When asked as to what appealed her the most about the film, Vidya said, "Her power was what grabbed me and the fact that it's a beautiful story. Reactions have been great. So, that's the only proof that it's a great story. When I read the script, I was mesmerised by the story and by the character. 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa' is the only remake I have done, but when I heard 'Begum Jaan's script, I could not stop myself from doing it." The 'Kahaani' star, along with the film's other star cast, including Gauhar Khan, Pallavi Sharda and director Srijit Mukherji today promoted their film in the national capital. On a related note, 'Begum Jaan', which also features Ila Arun, Naseeruddin Shah and Chunky Pandey, is set to hit the theatres on April 14, 2017.(ANI)