Vidya Balan: sensuous and fearless

Balan, who will be seen in an alluring and sensuous avatar Silk Smitha in The Dirty Picture, says she does not fear being tagged as a “porn star”.

Balan will be playing the character of the southern sex symbol Vijaylakshmi, better known as Silk Smitha, in Milan Luthria’s forthcoming project.

“I think I am an actor playing a character Silk Smitha. I don’t think there is a possibility of that tag being attached to me. I just hope it adds another shade to me as an actor,” Balan said.

Silk Smitha, a small-town girl, with her dance numbers and bold performances, became the ultimate symbol of sensuality in southern Indian cinema.

Film critics have often referred to her as a “soft porn” actress.

Produced by Ekta Kapoor, The Dirty Picture stars Naseeruddin Shah, Emrran Hashmi and Tusshar Kapoor in pivotal roles.

The film, chronicling the journey of the yesteryear seductress and her early demise, is slated to release on Smitha’s birthday on December 2.