Vidya Balan is an Indian film actress who has appeared in numerous Bollywood films. She began her acting career in television, but rose to prominence with her performances in films such as "Parineeta," "The Dirty Picture," and "Kahaani." Balan has won several awards for her work, including a National Film Award and multiple Filmfare Awards. She is known for her versatile acting skills and has portrayed a variety of characters on screen, ranging from a traditional housewife to a bold and glamorous actress. Balan is also a prominent advocate for women's empowerment and has spoken out on issues such as body shaming and gender inequality.