Contrary of what people perceive of Bollywood, Vidya Balan says she doesn't feel the industry is a "big bad world".

"I had heard film industry is a big bad world, but I lead my world my way and on my own terms. I was very clear from the beginning and had made it a point that others also know that I was only and only interested in work and nothing more than that," said Vidya in the capital Saturday, attending the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit.

"I became an actor to live life of many actors. I have dabbled in all the mediums. I have done ad-films, I have done television and I have done films, because that is what I wanted to do - be an actor. I grew up as a film fan. I had a burning desire to show my skills to the world," she added.

The 32-year-old also feels that newcomers need to keep their foot down and be clear with their own thinking process.

"I don't think it's a bad world. Now that I have been here, I can say this with my experience. One does get to hear about other peoples' experience, stories of exploitation, casting couch. But trust me, all is in your own hands. It all depends on how you present yourself and approach," she said.

Filmmaker-actor Farhan Akhtar, who too was one of the speakers at the conference, shared the same sentiments.

"I completely agree with Vidya, every industry has an underbelly. It is important for you to make your own choice and stand for it," said Farhan.