Mumbai: Global icon Priyanka Chopra has candidly revealed the real reasons behind her departure from Bollywood, shedding light on the complex dynamics and politics of the Indian film industry that led her to pursue a new beginning in Hollywood.
Though she had already achieved significant fame in Hindi cinema, Chopra found herself increasingly sidelined due to interpersonal conflicts and the industry’s unwritten rules of influence and power. Her transition wasn’t solely driven by a desire for international fame but stemmed from a deeper need to take back control of her career and carve out a space where her artistic voice could thrive.
In a revealing 2023 appearance on the Armchair Expert podcast, Chopra said,
“I was being pushed into a corner in the industry. I had people not casting me, I had beef with people”.
She reflected on how these personal and professional conflicts made it difficult for her to find fulfilling opportunities, leading to frustration and disillusionment.
Around that time, her manager presented her with a new path: exploring a music career in the United States. Eager for change, Chopra embraced the idea, viewing it as a chance to escape both the limiting roles she was offered and the toxic social dynamics within the industry.
Her venture into music saw her collaborate with global stars like Pitbull and will.i.am. Although the music career didn’t soar as expected, it became a crucial stepping stone. Chopra eventually returned to acting, landing the lead role in Quantico—a groundbreaking moment that made her the first South Asian to headline a network television series in the U.S.
Her shift wasn’t merely about geography; it was about freedom. Chopra’s decision to break away from Bollywood’s behind-the-scenes politics was a powerful move toward autonomy and self-definition in an industry that often operates on influence rather than merit.
Her journey reflects not just resilience but a deep commitment to her craft and identity. Priyanka Chopra continues to be a beacon for artists around the world who seek creative independence and the courage to forge their own path.
