Priyanka Chopra has opened up about one of the most defining decisions of her career — stepping away from a successful run in Bollywood to explore opportunities abroad. At a time when she was firmly established as a leading actor in the Hindi film industry, Chopra chose to expand her horizons internationally, eventually building a career that spans both India and the United States.
In a recent conversation with Jay Shetty, the actor reflected on the emotional and professional challenges she faced within the industry before making the move. She described the film business as demanding and often unpredictable, noting that success is influenced not only by talent but also by timing, networking, and internal dynamics. According to her, sustaining oneself in the industry can be difficult due to its competitive and politically driven nature.
Chopra revealed that there came a phase when she felt professionally restricted despite doing meaningful work. She described feeling “cornered,” with fewer opportunities aligning with her long-term aspirations. At that point, she realised that remaining within a single industry might limit her growth and longevity. Seeking emotional clarity and creative expansion, she made the decision to shift her base overseas while maintaining a presence in India.
Establishing dual homes in Mumbai and the United States allowed Chopra to pursue global projects without completely disconnecting from her roots. She shared that relocating was not just a strategic career move but also a necessary step for personal well-being. The transition opened up new creative avenues and introduced her to collaborators outside the traditional film ecosystem.
Her experience working with international music artists such as will.i.am and Pitbull proved particularly transformative. Being in recording studios and collaborating with global talent offered her a fresh perspective and helped her break out of the confines of acting alone. She described this period as a “breath of fresh air,” allowing her to explore new dimensions of performance and creativity.
The move also marked a turning point in her emotional journey. Chopra likened the experience to being pulled out of a suffocating situation and finally being able to breathe. By stepping into unfamiliar territory, she discovered renewed motivation and confidence, which eventually helped her re-establish herself on a global stage.
Currently, Chopra is promoting her upcoming film The Bluff, in which she stars alongside Karl Urban. She is also set to appear in director S. S. Rajamouli’s next project Varanasi, featuring Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
Through her journey, Chopra’s career trajectory reflects the importance of adaptability and self-awareness in navigating an ever-evolving entertainment landscape