Priyanka Chopra Delivers Heartfelt Speech at Harvard University Gathering
Global superstar Priyanka Chopra recently took center stage at a prestigious student-led initiative hosted at Harvard University over the weekend. The annual event brought together influential figures from various sectors, including politician Shashi Tharoor and leaders from Indian business, policy, technology, finance, literature, culture, and sports.
Paying Tribute to Bollywood Pioneers in Hollywood
During her powerful address, Priyanka Chopra won hearts by acknowledging the Indian artists who broke into Hollywood long before her own breakthrough in 2015. She expressed deep gratitude for those who paved the way for her international career.
"I really do believe that I stand on the shoulders of amazing artists and talents that came before me," Chopra declared emotionally. "Aishwarya Rai was an icon when she was working in Hollywood. Irrfan Khan, of course, and Mindy Kaling... I was able to push the door open and stand up for what I believe in because they did what they did."
Reflecting on Her Harvard Experience and Student Interaction
Following the event, Priyanka took to social media to share glimpses from her Harvard visit and penned a thoughtful note about her experience. She revealed that the day's discussion focused on 'The India we imagine' theme, which deeply resonated with her.
"Looking out into the audience, I only had one thought - You are the India I imagined," she wrote. "When my 12-year-old self landed in a high school in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and subsequently to Newton North High School in Massachusetts in the mid-90s, there were not many who looked like me around."
The actress expressed amazement at how much has changed in three decades, noting that she never imagined she would be speaking to such a diverse group of future leaders at Harvard's iconic venue. She particularly appreciated that "the audience was packed... and we were Desi... and Desi allies!"
Sharing Wisdom with the Next Generation
In her message to students, Priyanka offered heartfelt advice: "Meeting you all, I can tell that you have the empathy and the courage to be the best versions of yourselves. Be kind as well. To others and to yourselves. Thank you for the love. It was my honour and privilege to share this afternoon and this Valentine's weekend with you."
Opening Up About Her Challenging Hollywood Journey
Viral videos from the chat captured Priyanka's candid discussion about building a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. She reflected on the difficult transition from Bollywood to Hollywood, revealing the stark differences in her professional experiences.
"I was dealing with a lot when it comes to my work back in India, and I was trying to survive," she confessed. "I would wait for like 15 hours and not be shot that day. Those are things I hadn't experienced in my career back home. And I was okay to do it every morning because I was like, I'm going for that long term. I'm going for that legacy."
Redefining Success in Her Current Chapter
The actress shared how her perspective on success has evolved over the years, particularly after becoming a mother. She articulated a more balanced approach to her career and personal life.
"My redefinition of success is being able to spend time with my family, to be able to pick up my daughter from school," Priyanka explained. "To have the luxury to pick and choose work where I can craft time around my family and friends, while I navigate this insane career."
Upcoming Professional Projects
On the work front, Priyanka Chopra will next appear in the Hollywood OTT release 'The Bluff', co-starring Karl Urban. The film is scheduled for online release on February 26, marking another milestone in her international acting career.
