Vidya Balan and Emraan Hashmi play the perfectly imperfect ‘couple’

They’ve both had their share of successes and failures. They were both written-off, despite making a splash in Bollywood.

One was branded a “serial kisser”, and the other a “fashion disaster”.

Not ones to take things lying down, they, in-turn, cashed in on the cynicism and defied Bollywood stereotypes, only to emerge stronger and more impactful.

Their recent string of compelling performances only reiterate this point.

And, living up their moment in the spotlight are the vivacious Vidya Balan and the unassuming Emraan Hashmi, who are all set to recreate their winning run at the box-office with the crazy comedy ‘Ghanchakkar’.

Despite the similarities in their journey to the top, they are distinctly different in their approach to movie promotions, if nothing else.

One was dressed in character and flaunted her outrageous ‘Ghanchakkar’ shimmery costume, while the other preferred to pack away his polka-dotted pyjamas for a more subtle look during their Dubai stopover.

They are, however, guided by similar philosophies when choosing impressive movie projects, and the expectations, they claim only makes them want to work harder.

Speaking to Emirates247, Vidya Balan revealed that she is happy that people expect so much from her movies, especially since she has won the best actress award four years in a row.

“But, I’m very selfish an actor to let that guide my decision. So, it has to be something that excites me. I signed this film because I knew it was going to take entertainment to another level.

Emraan is in agreement with Vidya’s movie-choosing strategy.

“I think it’s the same process. Yes, I know there’s a certain expectation when you step out from your comfort zone and do different kinds of films. There’s a certain unpredictability attached to that. And, people are expecting a lot from it.

“I’m just happy that at this point of time in my career, I’ve reached a point where I’m great films from filmmakers that I’ve always wanted to work with. And, it’s great to be in a position where you can steer your career the way you want. Of course, there’s the element of risk, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

He claimed that in his decade-long acting career “risks have always paid-off”.

The promos of ‘Ghanchakkar’ have, if nothing else, flaunted the most eccentric wardrobe for its leading lady, one that Vidya finds most liberating to don, considering she has faced immense rejection from the “fashion police”.

“Yes! In that sense, it’s quite liberating,” she laughed. “But, I wasn’t really thinking about that.

“If I thought I challenged my vanity in ‘Dirty Picture’, I think this role has challenged my vanity to another level. And, the culprit for that is this man (points at director Raj Kumar Gupta who was seated next to her).”

There was an initial apprehension, she reveals, when the movie’s costume designer was worried about dressing her in outlandish designs and loud colours.

But, it was Raj who put things in perspective. “He told her that she was not dressing Vidya, but Neetu.”

“It is liberating. I don’t usually watch myself on the monitor but in this movie all the more I didn’t,” she chuckled.

“But, I’ve enjoyed playing her and that’s why I am carrying it forward through all my promotions. I’m having great fun.”

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