In a candid revelation, renowned actress Priyanka Chopra has spoken about a distressing incident from her early years in the film industry. The 40-year-old actress recounted an uncomfortable situation on the set. An unnamed Bollywood filmmaker asked to see her underwear, causing her to feel dehumanized and objectified.
Recalling the incident, which occurred around 2002 or 2003, Priyanka explained that she was playing an undercover character who seduces a male character. She wanted to layer up for comfort in a scene where she was required to remove one piece of clothing at a time. However, the filmmaker insisted on seeing her underwear, claiming it was necessary to attract audiences to the movie.
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The demeaning comment was not directed at Priyanka, but someone made it to the stylist before her. She described the incident as a dehumanizing moment in which she felt her worth as an artist was disregarded and reduced to her physical appearance. The incident deeply affected her, leading her to quit the project two days later. Additionally, upon her father’s advice, Priyanka personally compensated the production crew for the financial losses incurred due to her departure.
The distress caused by the director’s behaviour made it impossible for Priyanka to continue working on the project. She expressed her inability to face the director daily, prompting her decision to leave.
In a recent interview, Priyanka Chopra also revealed the reasons behind her departure from Bollywood, feeling boxed in and constrained by the industry’s politics. She mentioned facing casting rejections and conflicts with people, which led her to seek a break. During this time, she embarked on a short-lived music career, opening doors for her entry into Hollywood.
Venture into Music
The music industry allowed Priyanka Chopra to explore new territories and escape the demands and politics of the Bollywood scene. She emphasized her reluctance to engage in the superficial aspects of the entertainment world. This included networking and appeasing specific circles of people. The decision to venture into music led her to the United States, where she set her sights on new horizons.
Her willingness to share her experiences highlights the need for tremendous respect, dignity and professionalism in entertainment.