Priyanka Chopra Unveils Surprising Kerala Heritage in Candid Interview
Bollywood superstar Priyanka Chopra has revealed a fascinating personal connection to the southern Indian state of Kerala during a recent interview with co-stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran. The conversation, which covered everything from martial arts training to culinary preferences, provided rare insights into the actors' backgrounds and preparations for their upcoming film 'Varanasi'.
Chopra's Unexpected Kottayam Connection
When the discussion turned to Kalaripayattu, the ancient martial art form originating from Kerala, Priyanka Chopra made a surprising revelation. "I know kalari too, okay? It is also the art of my land; my grandmother is from Kottayam!" she declared, catching both Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran off guard. The actors responded with visible surprise and delight at this unexpected disclosure about Chopra's family roots in the Kerala district.
Mahesh Babu's Intensive Six-Month Training Regimen
Mahesh Babu, who initiated the Kalaripayattu discussion, shared extensive details about his rigorous preparation for 'Varanasi'. The actor underwent six months of specialized training to ensure his running and action sequences would appear completely natural on screen. "When you do kalari, the body becomes flexible and it becomes easier to do such poses," Babu explained, emphasizing the physical benefits of the martial art form.
The 'Spyder' actor revealed that despite only two running shots appearing in the final film, he committed to intensive training with a professional track and field team to perfect his technique. "Kalari is a kind of exercise for me," he added, highlighting how the discipline has become integrated into his fitness routine.
Visual Learning Techniques and European Inspiration
Mahesh Babu described an unconventional learning method employed during his preparation. The film's director provided him with photographs of European sculptures depicting specific poses, which Babu then used as visual references. "I stuck those pictures all around my study room. I tried to copy those poses and kept them saved on my phone," he shared. This approach helped him understand how his body should appear during particular scenes, demonstrating his dedication to authentic physical performance.
Culinary Conversations Reveal Diverse Tastes
The interview took a lighter turn when the host inquired about the actors' favorite Indian foods. Mahesh Babu immediately declared his passion for Hyderabadi chicken biryani, calling it "my life." Priyanka Chopra expressed similar appreciation for the dish but revealed her true culinary weakness lies elsewhere. "Hyderabadi food is amazing. I like chicken biryani too. But I am a big fan of chaats. Chaats are street food. That is my favorite," she confessed.
Prithviraj Sukumaran's Perspective on Regional Diversity
Prithviraj Sukumaran offered a thoughtful comparison between Indian cuisine and Indian cinema, noting the remarkable diversity within both. "Indian food is like Indian cinema. There is no one thing called 'Indian food.' In different parts of India, the food is very, very different," he observed. The 'Khalifa' actor shared that growing up in a coastal Kerala town gave him particular appreciation for seafood, with rice and fish curry from his hometown remaining his ultimate comfort food.
Anticipation Builds for 'Varanasi' Release
Fans are eagerly awaiting the April 7, 2027 release of 'Varanasi', with this revealing interview providing intriguing behind-the-scenes glimpses into the actors' preparations and personal backgrounds. The conversation highlighted not only their professional dedication but also their diverse cultural connections across India, from Priyanka Chopra's Kerala heritage to Mahesh Babu's Hyderabadi culinary preferences and Prithviraj Sukumaran's coastal upbringing.
