‘The Dirty Picture’ is a perfect example where fate plays a bigger role than planning. Released back in 2011, the film went on to redefine Vidya Balan‘s career and remains one of her most iconic performances even today. But here’s a throwback fact that many fans might still not know: the role of Silk almost went to someone else entirely.
The actress who was approached before Vidya Balan
Before Vidya Balan brought Silk Smitha‘s larger-than-life persona to the screen, the makers had first knocked on Kangana Ranaut‘s door for the part. The latter has spoken about this on several occasions over the years, never shying away from the truth. She once reflected, “Mujhe is role ko nahi karne ka koi pachtava nahi hai. Jaisa main hamesha kehti aayi hoon ki ‘The Dirty Picture’ ek shandaar film hai. Mujhe nahi lagta ki main Vidya Balan se zyada acche dhang se ise nibha sakti thi. Is film mein woh kamaal ki hain. Lekin kai baar mujhe lagta hai ki main is film se judi sambhavanayon ko pehchan nahi pai thi (I have no regrets about not taking on this role. As I have always said, ‘The Dirty Picture’ is a brilliant film. I don’t think I could have portrayed it any better than Vidya Balan did. She is phenomenal in the film. However, at times, I feel that I failed to recognise the possibilities and potential that the film offered).”Her words carried both grace and genuine appreciation for how Vidya eventually owned the role.
More about ‘The Dirty Picture’
Helmed by Milan Luthria and penned by Rajat Arora, with Ekta Kapoor backing the project, ‘The Dirty Picture’ brought together Vidya Balan, Emraan Hashmi, Naseeruddin Shah, and Tusshar Kapoor in key roles. Set against the backdrop of the South Indian film industry in the 1980s, it followed a small-town girl’s rise to stardom and the fame, scandal, and isolation that came along with it.
Box office run
Made on a reported budget of close to Rs 18 crore, the film went on to stun trade experts by raking in an estimated Rs 117 crore globally, placing it among 2011’s biggest hits.
