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The hour-long session saw Vidya Balan and Ila Arun along with Anjula Bedi discuss different chapters and quotes from the book.
Vidya Balan and Ila Arun, among others pose with the book titled Parde Ke Peechhey. (Photo Credit: Atish Tambe)
The second day of Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest saw bibliophiles and literati come together for the highlight session titled Celebrating Women: The Shashi Baliga Memorial Session — My Medley. The hour-long session saw Gaurav Sharma chair the panel comprising Vidya Balan, Anjula Bedi, and Ila Arun. The conversation focused on Ila Arun’s autobiography titled Parde Ke Peechhey.
Gaurav Sharma started the show with a hall filled with bibliophiles, friends, and family at The Tata Theatre, NCPA. Arun was welcomed with a standing ovation at the packed auditorium. The session began with Sharma announcing the launch of the book, and then it was all about a chat dotted with interesting anecdotes. From laughter to tears — the audience in the session experienced a range of emotions as the conversation flowed.
The hour-long session saw Vidya Balan, Ila Arun, and Anjula Bedi discussing different chapters and anecdotes from the book. One revelation that left everyone surprised was when Gaurav Sharma disclosed that there’s a section dedicated to Balan. In the chapter, Arun speaks about Balan and her journey since her debut in Parineeta (2005). The anecdotes read aloud were from the sets of Shaadi Ke Side Effects, Begum Jaan, and Sherni, where the two have shared screen space. From pranks on set to exchanged gifts, all of this made its way into the chapter, which stands out in the book.
Talking exclusively to News18 post the session, Ila Arun spoke about what made her dedicate and write a few paragraphs about Vidya Balan. “I have acted in three movies with her so far, and I haven’t seen a more mature, bubbly and sensitive girl like her. I love her a lot. Age -wise, she’s younger to me, but when it comes to experience, she’s quite elder to me,” said an elated Ila Arun.
Reacting to the comments and praises, Vidya Balan shared, “No chance! That’s her humility talking. I was surprised, I wasn’t aware of it [the paragraphs dedicated to her in the book]. I was very touched when Ilaji asked me to launch her book. I absolutely love her. She’s one of my favourite people. She’s a complete entertainer.”
The session ended on a high note with everyone giving the panel a thunderous applause.
