Priyanka Chopra Jonas has always been candid about her journey in the entertainment industry, sharing not only her triumphs but also the struggles she has faced along the way. In a recent conversation during the Forbes Power Women’s Summit, the actor recalled a deeply troubling experience from the beginning of her career. The encounter, which occurred when she was just 19, left a lasting impact on her, and she openly discussed how it shaped her view of the industry.
At the time, Priyanka was working on a movie, and as a newcomer eager to make her mark, she approached the filmmaker to discuss the details of her role. She wanted to speak with her stylist about the costume and appearance requirements for the character. However, what followed was something that would leave her shocked and disheartened.
The director, in a moment that Priyanka described as “dehumanising,” picked up the phone and made an inappropriate comment. He told the stylist, “Listen, people are going to come into the movies to watch her when she shows her panties. So it needs to be really short so that I can see her panties. You know those people sitting up front? They should be able to see her panties.” Priyanka recalled that the director repeated these words several times, and it wasn’t even just the vulgarity of the statement that struck her but the crude manner in which he spoke. She added that the language used was even worse in Hindi, making the situation feel even more disrespectful.
The experience was deeply disturbing for Priyanka, and she admitted that in that moment, she felt like an object rather than an actor. She could not believe how a professional in the industry could speak to her in such a demeaning way. For a young woman starting her career, the weight of such comments was heavy, and it left her heartbroken.
Reflecting on the incident, Priyanka expressed how it was one of the defining moments that made her realise the harsh realities women in the industry often face. She stated that after hearing the director’s words, she could not even look at his face anymore. The humiliation was so profound that she made the decision to walk out of the film. “I just couldn’t take it anymore,” she said. “It was a moment where I realised this is what I was signing up for.”
Despite being one of the most successful actors in the world today, Priyanka has consistently been vocal about the difficulties women face in the entertainment industry, especially in Bollywood. She has spoken openly about her experiences with the casting couch and the often discriminatory practices women endure. However, she has also used her platform to advocate for change, encouraging more respect and empowerment for women in all aspects of the industry.
Priyanka’s story is one of resilience and strength. In the face of such adversity, she chose not to succumb to the toxic environment but instead made the difficult decision to walk away from the project. Her experience served as a turning point, and she realised that she did not have to tolerate such treatment to succeed in the industry. It was this determination and self-respect that propelled her to international success, earning her roles in Hollywood and becoming a global icon.
The incident also highlighted the challenges women, especially young women, face when entering the entertainment world. Despite the glamour and glitz associated with being a film star, the industry can often be unforgiving, particularly when it comes to how women are treated and the expectations placed on them. Priyanka’s bravery in sharing this painful experience sheds light on the importance of creating a safer, more respectful environment for women in the film industry.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to be a powerful advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, using her platform to raise awareness about the struggles faced by women in the entertainment industry. Her journey serves as a reminder that while the road to success may be fraught with obstacles, it is crucial to stand up for oneself and demand respect, regardless of the external pressures.
Priyanka Chopra’s experience also serves as a powerful lesson for young women entering the entertainment industry. It’s a harsh reality that many are unaware of until they find themselves in similar situations. The courage to walk away from such an uncomfortable scenario at the start of her career was not just about standing up for her dignity but also about redefining how she wanted to navigate the industry. By choosing to distance herself from that filmmaker, she sent a strong message that she would not let anyone undermine her worth, no matter the price.
As she reflects on her career now, Priyanka also acknowledges that the entertainment world, while glamorous, has often been a battleground for women. From navigating objectification to breaking barriers, women in the industry face constant challenges that men often do not. Yet, Priyanka’s decision to walk out of a project was an early indication of her resilience, one that would later define her trajectory. As an actress, producer, and philanthropist, she has carved a niche for herself on her own terms, rejecting the notion that women must accept disrespect to advance.
Over the years, Priyanka has proven that success is not just about fame or box-office numbers, but about maintaining integrity and respect in an environment that can often demand compromise. Her words during the Forbes Power Women’s Summit emphasized that women must support each other and foster an environment where mutual respect is the foundation of their careers. This philosophy is something Priyanka actively advocates, and she encourages others to share their stories, however difficult they may be.
Moreover, Priyanka’s openness about her past struggles allows her to connect with fans and fellow professionals in a more authentic way. By exposing the grim truths of the entertainment world, she fosters a conversation about the need for accountability and change. Her decision to not keep silent about such an episode sets a precedent for other actors, especially young women, who may feel pressured to stay quiet for fear of jeopardizing their careers. Priyanka’s transparency in sharing these experiences encourages others to value their dignity over fleeting opportunities.
Throughout her career, Priyanka has also advocated for a diverse representation of women in film. Her rise to international fame through roles in both Bollywood and Hollywood has given her a platform to break stereotypes and broaden the scope of what a woman in film can represent. From her portrayal of strong female characters to her candidness about the struggles women face in the industry, Priyanka has become a symbol of strength, perseverance, and change.
By confronting uncomfortable truths and using her own painful experiences to fuel her ambition, Priyanka Chopra Jonas has proven that success is about more than just achieving fame—it’s about maintaining authenticity and integrity in a world that often tries to undermine both. Her voice continues to inspire not just aspiring actresses, but also women in any field who face challenges due to their gender. Priyanka’s journey demonstrates that standing up for oneself and prioritizing one’s values are essential for long-term success and fulfillment.
