 In 2005 Vidya made her Hindi film debut with Pradeep Sarkar 's musical drama Parineeta . Before being cast for the film , she had to undergo extensive auditions for a period of six months . The film , an adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay 's novel of the same name , narrated the love story of an idealist Lalita ( Vidya ) and a musician Shekhar ( Saif Ali Khan ) , the son of a capitalist businessman . Her performance in the film was praised by critics ; Derek Elley from Variety wrote , " An acting revelation is Tamil newcomer [ Vidya ] Balan , whose devoted but dignified Lalita is the picture 's heart and soul . " Parineeta fetched her a Best Female Debut award and a nomination for Best Actress at the annual Filmfare Awards ceremony . The following year , Vidya appeared opposite Sanjay Dutt in Rajkumar Hirani 's comedy film Lage Raho Munna Bhai . She portrayed the role of <unk> , a radio jockey and the love interest of the protagonist Munna Bhai . To prepare for her role , she met with a couple of radio jockeys and watched them at work . Her performance was critically well received , and the film emerged as a blockbuster with earnings of ₹ 1 @.@ 19 billion ( US $ 18 million ) . 
