Priyanka Chopra Jonas Embraces Homecoming with Epic 'Varanasi'
Global superstar Priyanka Chopra Jonas has expressed overwhelming excitement about her return to Indian cinema during the grand unveiling of the highly anticipated epic film 'Varanasi'. After years of working on international projects like 'Heads of State' and 'Citadel', Priyanka described this project as a heartfelt homecoming to her roots.
A Joyful Return to Telugu Cinema and Indian Fandom
In an exclusive interview with Screen Rant Plus, Priyanka opened up about the incredible reception from local audiences, which deeply moved her. "For me, I haven't done a Telugu movie in I don't even know... I haven't done one," she stated, adding, "Being able to get that kind of acceptance from Telugu fans—as you've seen, it's very, very specific to this region. That level of love and affection is something very unique."
Reflecting on her global experience, she emphasized the unparalleled nature of Indian cinema fandom. "I think Indian cinema has fandom... the level of love and affection and attention that you get is unprecedented. You don't see that—now having worked abroad—you don't see that anywhere else in the world. It's very specific to Indian cinema and Indian fans," she said with evident emotion.
Adapting Between Hollywood and Indian Filmmaking Cultures
When asked how her international career has influenced her approach to 'Varanasi', Chopra stressed that each industry requires a distinct mindset. "I think the culture of filmmaking is very different in Hollywood versus how we work in India, and you have to pivot your brain. So I can divide my brain into two," she explained thoughtfully.
She further clarified that she doesn't attempt to blend the two styles. "I don't think there is a world in which you bring lessons from there here or vice versa. I think you have to immerse yourself in—and I believe anyway an actor's journey is through a director's vision... You just have to go into every film set with the originality of whatever you're going to receive from that set."
Gratitude Toward Visionary Director S.S. Rajamouli
Priyanka expressed profound gratitude to acclaimed director S.S. Rajamouli, whose previous blockbuster RRR achieved global recognition, for offering her this collaboration opportunity. "I'm so happy to be coming back and making this movie in India because if there was any way to come back into Indian cinema, it was this. I'm just really grateful to have a wonderful part and to work with stalwarts like these two but also Rajamouli sir, who's a visionary like we've never seen before," she shared enthusiastically.
Praising Rajamouli's Meticulous Technical Process
Speaking about Rajamouli's unique working style, Priyanka admired his exceptional attention to technical detail. She playfully remarked, "We are actually spoilt on this set. Oh yeah, no one does this. It's the worst!" before describing his meticulous approach.
"He shoots the rehearsal—he shoots it with his cinematographer—exactly like the final scene. So this line will be a close-up; this line will be a wide shot, so everyone knows exactly what you're doing by the time you get to set. We're never at a point where you're unaware," she explained.
She revealed how thoroughly prepared the cast is before filming, noting they often preview scenes in edited form. "For most major scenes, we've shot and edited the scene with just us in track pants or casual clothes in a studio. But we know exactly what we're doing, which, a lot of times, you don't have the privilege to do," Chopra shared, highlighting the unique advantages of Rajamouli's method.
Rediscovering the Joy of Song and Dance
Having spent several years in Hollywood, Priyanka finds special delight in returning to quintessential Indian cinema elements through 'Varanasi'. She counts traditional song-and-dance moments among the most fulfilling aspects of her comeback.
"This is the first one I'm doing after almost six years in India... my favourite part was getting to dance again. I haven't done that in any Hollywood productions. I was really excited to be able to do that," she said with visible enthusiasm.
Reflecting on early film discussions, Priyanka admitted dancing was something she insisted on including. "That's something that was a big part of it. I would request that we have—I have to be able to dance in this movie," she emphasized.
Teasing the Ambitious Concept of 'Varanasi'
Priyanka offered intriguing hints about the film's expansive narrative. "The reason it's called Globe Trotter and the hashtag is #GlobeTrotter is because the movie moves around lots of, you know, not just time zones, but also time travel. So it's really fun, and I can't wait... if RRR was—if you were that impressed by that—then I think this will be a lot more fun," she concluded with promising excitement.
Throughout her reflections, Priyanka Chopra Jonas highlighted the cultural and technological growth she has witnessed since transitioning from major Hollywood projects back to Indian storytelling, marking 'Varanasi' as a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
