Vidya was first choice to play Geeta Bali in "Ek Albela"

The makers of "Ek Albela" say Bollywood star Vidya Balan was their first choice to play Geeta Bali in the biopic of legendary actor Bhagwan Dada.

The 37-year-old "Kahaani" actress is essaying the role of of the yesteryear Bollywood actress in the upcoming Marathi movie, which traces the journey of Bhagwan Dada's film career as an actor and director. Her role will be credited as a special appearance.

"Vidya Balan is certainly one of the best actresses in Bollywood. She was definitely the first choice to play Geeta Bali in "Ek Albela". It would be an honour to work with the actress," producer Monish Babre said.

To be directed by Shekhar Sartandel, the biopic is a tribute to the veteran actor for his contribution to Hindi cinema.

Vidya's character did not require to speak in Marathi, but the versatile actress had a blast on the sets as she used to converse in Marathi with the cast and crew who were quite surprised with her command over the language.

"Vidya's character speaks Hindi. We were quite amazed by the fact that she used to converse with the cast and crew in Marathi," Babre said.