Was scared Vidya will overpower 'Ekk Albela': Mangesh Desai

May 31, 2016 IANS

Mumbai: Actor Mangesh Desai, who will be seen essaying the role of Bhagwan Dada in Marathi film "Ekk Albela", says he was scared that Bollywood actress Vidya Balan would overpower him with her presence in the film.

Vidya is making her Marathi film debut with a special appearance as Geeta Bali in "Ekk Albela".

"Vidya is a huge star in Bollywood. When she agreed to do this film, I was scared that how will she adjust herself with me in this film and considering her stardom, I was also scared that she will overpower the film," Mangesh told IANS.

However, his concerns were taken care of.

"Now I realise why is Vidya such a big star... Because she is so grounded. The day she came to the set, she made it very clear that 'Don't promote this film as Vidya Balan's film. This is Mangesh's film and let's stick to that'.

"Only an actor like Vidya will have that courage to give the footage to the other actor," he added.

"Ekk Albela" traces the journey of Bhagwan Dada's film career as an actor and director and Vidya's role is credited as a special appearance.

Bhagwan Dada faced a lot of obstacles while making the musical "Albela", which had Geeta Bali in the lead.

Mangesh further said he is extremely happy the way the Marathi film industry is growing.

"I am extremely proud to be associated with the Marathi film industry. It has always been strong on its content and it feels great that it's doing so well these days," he said.

The film is directed by Shekhar Sartandal.