NEW DELHI: Actress Vidya Balan – known to take on challenging roles and win laurels – has been conferred a Doctor of Arts Honoris Causa by the Ahmedabad-based Rai University. Balan also completed ten years in the film industry this week.

The honour was given earlier this week in appreciation of her contributions to Indian cinema over the past 10 years. Her endeavour to bring out the strong side of a woman in films has contributed to women’s empowerment in society, Rai University chancellor, Dr. Harbeen Arora, said.

The actress thanked God, her parents, the university and “each and every one of you” among the media present at the convocation at the J.W. Marriott International.

The University also announced an annual scholarship named Balan, and she said she was tongue-tied.

She said, “I must also thank my husband Siddharth (Roy Kapur of Disney) even if he is embarrassed by what I am going to say. And that is that just by being with him, I have become a better person! I would like you to be with me all my life and I have to tell you that I will be with you all your life too!”

“It is truly humbling and overwhelming to receive this honour. What makes this even more special is that I complete ten years in the Hindi 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 Indians. I hope to live up to the title,” said Balan.

Her parents, sister’s family and her mother-in-law were also present.

“Among the league of iconic actors, Vidya is a pioneer in every way. Her films epitomize a distinct Indian-ness and powerful womanhood,” Arora said. The citation mentioned all the key films in Balan’s career.

Balan has received the four highest civilian award ‘Padma Shri’, a National Award, and Filmfare awards.