Mumbai, June 1
Actress Vidya Balan was conferred with a Doctor of Arts Honoris Causa degree by an Ahmedabad-based institute Rai University to appreciate her contribution to Indian cinema and for her endeavour to bring out the strong side of a woman via the silver screen. Overwhelmed by the honour, the actress said she hopes to live up to the honour.

“It is truly humbling and overwhelming to receive this honour. What makes this even more special is that I complete ten years in the film industry this year.

“There can be no bigger compliment for any actor than to have done work that has made a significant mark and also to be looked upon as a role model by young India. I hope to live up to the title,” Vidya said in a statement.

The actress, who ventured into Bollywood with “Parineeta” after her stint on the small screen through “Hum Paanch”, was awarded the degree at a special convocation ceremony held here on Monday.

The Rai University decided to award the actress with the degree for her exceptional contribution to the Indian film industry and for her contribution to empowering womanhood in the country, read a statement.

Rai University provides education and empowering opportunities for all sections of society, especially for girls from the underprivileged sections of society.

The university's chancellor Harbeen Arora also mentions that Vidya's films are synonymous with strong women in society.

“Among the league of iconic actors, Vidya is a pioneer in every way. Her films epitomise a distinct Indianness and a powerful womanhood,” Arora said.

On the professional front, the actress will be seen in Mohit Suri's forthcoming directorial "Hamari Adhuri Kahani". It also stars Emraan Hashmi and Rajkummar Rao in lead roles and is a love story that tries to define the true meaning of loving someone selflessly. 

Vidya Balan to promote World Ethnic Day

Actress Vidya Balan, who often sports saris, has been roped in by online ethnic products marketplace Craftsvilla.com as the face of the World Ethnic Day, which will be celebrated globally by the company on June 19.

“By celebrating World Ethnic Day, we get an opportunity to go back to our roots. I feel strongly about the dying art of handlooms in the country, and also about the plight of artisans who are struggling for livelihood. I am delighted with the opportunity to spread awareness about it," Vidya said in a statement.

World ethnic Day envisages a world held together by its roots - a world that respects heritage, civilisation, anthropology, art and culture.

The company has brought the traditionally disorganised ethnic craft industry on to a structured platform.

“We are thrilled to have Vidya Balan endorse World Ethnic Day. There is tremendous synergy between her vision and ours. Vidya is a living ambassador for everyday ethnic. Her remarkable success and body of work stand testimony to ethnic is cool," said Manoj Gupta, founder of Craftsvilla.com.