Bollywood actress Vidya Balan, known for her charmingly traditional looks in her films, has undergone a complete makeover and says that it is a result of her self-realisation to look good.

"Nobody has ever asked me to lose weight. Earlier I was focusing only on getting the character right, on-screen. But lately I realised that actors owe a responsibility to look good in every character they play," Vidya told.

The svelte actress, also sporting a new haircut these days, said her new look is all for her upcoming film "Luck Charms".

"Recently I was in Toronto for two months. I used to plug in my I-pod and go for long walks that helped me shape up. Isn't it a lovely way to de-stress yourself?"

Oozing dollops of confidence, Vidya also said that she is an eternal optimist whose fan following always brings a smile on her face.

"There are times when you feel low. However I am an optimist and my fans give me a high. They bring a smile on my face and then I forget all the bad times," she said.

"I am one of those lucky ones who have the opportunity to do what they love the most.... to act. And when your fans appreciate your work, what else can one ask for?"

Commenting on the struggle that she went through to find a foothold in the industry, the actress said: "Struggle is a part of everyone's life but that's ok! After all, the person I am today is because of that only.

"Also the prayers of my parents, family members and well wishers have helped me become a strong woman possessing lots of will power."

The actress, who started her film career with Pradeep Sarkar's "Parineeta", has earned rave reviews for her performance in "Heyy Babyy", "Lage Raho Munnabhai" and "Bhool Bhulaiya" and is bowled over by the response she is getting.

"In the last couple of days I have received loads of messages, where people have praised my acting. I think after 'Parineeta' and 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' it is now that I have got this kind of a response. It is unbelievable and overwhelming".

For the actress, whose forthcoming projects include "Delhi 6" and "Halla Bol", the journey so far has been great and she wants to continue enacting different kinds of roles.

"I have received appreciation for many films and flak for some. But the journey so far has been delightful. I love it!"

"Every script demands a different performance from the last one you did. As an actor I want to continually play varied roles. The only condition is that I should be able to justify whatever I do."