Actor Priyanka Chopra has opened up about one of the most debated chapters of her career, revealing that her move toward international projects was not initially a voluntary shift but something she felt compelled to pursue amid changing circumstances in Bollywood. In a recent conversation, the global star shared that she never intended to leave the Hindi film industry but found herself looking beyond it when professional opportunities at home became limited.
Reflecting on her career trajectory, Priyanka said that she was effectively “pushed into” exploring work outside Bollywood, despite having built a strong and successful presence in the industry over the years. She acknowledged that leaving India was not part of her original plan and that her transition into global entertainment came from a need to reinvent herself professionally rather than a desire to distance herself from Hindi cinema.
The actor explained that the shift happened during a phase when she felt constrained within the existing ecosystem of the industry. While she refrained from naming specific individuals or incidents, she indicated that professional challenges and a sense of exclusion contributed to her decision to explore new avenues. According to her, the process of moving abroad was emotionally complex because it involved stepping away from a space where she had achieved recognition, fame, and personal connections.
Priyanka emphasised that her journey into international entertainment was gradual. She began by venturing into music before eventually securing acting opportunities in the West. Her American television debut with the series Quantico marked a significant turning point, introducing her to global audiences and opening doors to Hollywood projects. The actor said that this transition allowed her to rediscover creative freedom and expand her artistic horizons at a time when she felt professionally stagnant.
Despite her global success, Priyanka reiterated that she remains deeply connected to Indian cinema and culture. She described Bollywood as an integral part of her identity and credited it for shaping her as an artist. Her comments suggest that her international career should not be interpreted as a rejection of the Hindi film industry but rather as an evolution prompted by circumstance.
The actor also spoke about navigating new environments and overcoming challenges as an outsider in a different industry. She highlighted the importance of persistence and adaptability while building a career beyond familiar territories. According to Priyanka, the decision to move forward internationally ultimately proved transformative, enabling her to access opportunities that reshaped her career and personal growth.

