Film director and producer Suneel Darshan opened up about his experiences working with global icon Priyanka Chopra in the early stages of her career.
In a candid revelation, Darshan shared his thoughts on Priyanka’s talent, her distinctive voice, and an interesting request he made to the actress.
Priyanka Chopra, a globally adored actress, continues to command immense love and admiration worldwide. Despite her thriving career in Hollywood, the fervor and fascination for Priyanka in her home country, India, persist undiminished. The actress marked her entry into the film industry with the movie “Andaaz,” directed by Raj Kanwar and produced by Suneel Darshan. However, in a recent interview, Suneel Darshan made a surprising revelation, sharing that he once suggested to Priyanka that she consider getting her nose fixed. This revelation adds an intriguing dimension to Priyanka’s early days in Bollywood and prompts reflection on the evolving standards and expectations within the film industry.
During a recent interaction with an online entertainment news portal, Suneel Darshan recounted the fascinating story of how he first crossed paths with Priyanka Chopra. The filmmaker disclosed that Priyanka, accompanied by her father, had visited his office when he was on the lookout for a fresh face for an upcoming movie. Upon receiving a call from the reception about visitors, Darshan, known for his welcoming approach, decided to meet them. When he laid eyes on Priyanka, his initial reaction was one of surprise, with a mental exclamation of “Really?” Suneel Darshan admitted that Priyanka did not fit the conventional standards of beauty he had in mind at first glance. However, he emphasized that within a mere 15 minutes of conversation, he was convinced – Priyanka Chopra was the perfect choice for the role, showcasing how first impressions can often be deceiving in the world of cinema. He said- “Uski aankhein itni zabardast chalti thi, uski awaaz sexy aur nasheeli thi, uski bhook gehri thi” (as noted here)
Convinced that Priyanka Chopra possessed the qualities he was seeking, Suneel Darshan wasted no time in expressing his confidence in her suitability for the role. However, in a candid conversation, he also addressed what he perceived as an issue – Priyanka’s nose. Acknowledging her father’s expertise as an accomplished surgeon, Suneel suggested an immediate fix for the concern. Priyanka, displaying her commitment to the opportunity, assured him that she would take care of it. Despite the impending production schedule with a mere 10 days before going on the floor, Priyanka, demonstrating professionalism, requested additional time to address the matter, indicating her dedication to the role and the film. Darshan did not provide detailed reasons behind his suggestion, but it’s a reminder of the challenges and expectations actors often face in the glamour world.
Priyanka Chopra’s Response:
In response to Darshan’s revelation, Priyanka Chopra has not made any public statements. However, it’s worth noting that over the years, she has been an advocate for embracing individuality and breaking stereotypes. Priyanka’s journey from winning the Miss World pageant to becoming a global superstar showcases her resilience and determination to chart her path on her terms.
In a revealing interview on The Howard Stern Show a few months ago, Priyanka Chopra opened up about a challenging period in her life triggered by a disappointing nose job. The actress shared how the procedure had a profound impact, leading to a significant transformation in her appearance and subsequently plunging her into a deep, unsettling depression. At the time, Priyanka, who had already committed to several film projects, found herself grappling with the aftermath of the procedure. Medical advice urged her to undergo corrective surgery. In this trying phase, Priyanka credited her father as her unwavering source of strength. Shifting gears to the topic of her film “Andaaz,” Priyanka took on a pivotal role alongside Akshay Kumar and Lara Dutta, marking a significant chapter in her early Bollywood career.
Suneel Darshan’s revelations provide a glimpse into the dynamics of the Bollywood film industry and how it has evolved over the years. The industry, known for its glamour and glitz, has witnessed a gradual shift towards embracing diversity, individuality, and a more inclusive definition of beauty. Priyanka Chopra’s successful journey, despite initial suggestions, reflects the changing narrative in Bollywood.
Published by HOLR Magazine.