First choice for Silk Smitha in ‘The Dirty Picture’ was not Vidya Balan — find out who it was  The Times of India Sun, 26th October 2025

Ektaa Kapoor Shares Interesting Anecdote On Vidya Balan’s The Dirty Picture: “We Couldn’t Buy The Rights”  Koimoi Fri, 11th April 2025

Before Vidya Balan, This Actress Was Offered 'The Dirty Picture' — Here’s Why She Said No  News18 Mon, 27th October 2025

20 Years of Vidya Balan: From Parineeta, Ishqiya, The Dirty Picture, Kahaani to the LEGENDARY Manjulika in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, a look at the incredible journey of the actress who has ZERO haters, unmatched brand power and whose mere presence in a film i  Bollywood Hungama Tue, 10th June 2025

Vidya Balan: From The Dirty Picture to Now, 20 Years of Fearless Acting | THR Talks  The Hollywood Reporter India Tue, 22nd July 2025

Not Vidya Balan, this actress was first choice for The Dirty Picture's iconic role of 'Silk Smitha' before it  india.com Tue, 7th October 2025