Priyanka Chopra credits Aishwarya Rai Irrfan Khan for paving her Hollywood path

Actor Priyanka Chopra recently attended the annual Harvard India Conference, where she spoke about the influence of Indian figures in Hollywood. During a recent conversation, Chopra acknowledged how the journeys of actor Aishwarya Rai, late actor Irrfan Khan, and American actor-comedian Mindy Kaling contributed to her own career in the West.

She described these personalities as trailblazers whose achievements made it possible for others to follow in their footsteps.

“I STAND ON THEIR SHOULDERS”

Reflecting on her place in the industry, Chopra told journalist Anjula Acharia, “I really do believe that I stand on the shoulders of amazing artists and talents that came before me. Aishwarya Rai, an icon when she was working in Hollywood, Irrfan Khan, of course, Mindy Kaling. And I was able to push the door open and stand up for what I believe in because they did what they did.” The actor credited their pioneering work for enabling her to claim her own space in Hollywood.

Chopra gets emotional

After the conference, Chopra posted an emotional note on Instagram. She wrote about feeling overwhelmed upon seeing so many “desi people” in traditional attire at the event. She recalled that when she first moved to the United States at age 12, she rarely encountered people who looked like her in such spaces.

Aishwarya Rai and Irrfan Khan’s impact in the West

Aishwarya Rai is one of the first Indian actors to secure prominent roles in Western films. Her performances in projects like Bride & Prejudice, The Mistress of Spices, and The Pink Panther 2 brought Indian representation to a global audience. Rai’s frequent appearances at Cannes and involvement in international campaigns further expanded her reach.

Irrfan Khan has delivered memorable performances in films such as The Namesake, Life of Pi, Jurassic World, and Slumdog Millionaire.

Mindy Kaling’s work

Mindy Kaling’s work as a creator and performer in the US entertainment industry was mentioned by Chopra as another source of inspiration. Kaling’s success in mainstream television and film has contributed to more opportunities for South Asian artists in North America.

What’s next for Priyanka Chopra

Meanwhile, Priyanka is currently preparing for the release of her new film, The Bluff, directed by Frank E Flowers. The movie, which features Karl Urban and Ismael Cruz Córdova, will premiere on Amazon Prime Video on February 25.

She is also set to star in SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, alongside Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film would mark her return to Indian cinema with a release scheduled for 2027.

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