Priyanka Chopra on 6 flops: “Opportunities were taken away”

Priyanka Chopra recently reflected on her early career struggles during her appearance at the Bridge Summit in Abu Dhabi. The actress spoke candidly about navigating a difficult phase marked by six consecutive flops and how that period forced her to rethink her approach to work. Reported by Tanisha Bhattacharya From NDTV Movies. 

"Survival" Mode in the Early Years

Priyanka described how early setbacks shaped her journey and pushed her to pivot in unexpected ways. She said, "I had to pivot. There was a year when six of my films flopped consecutively. It was like, 'Oh my God, we shouldn't cast Priyanka because the film won't do well.' So, because of the fear of losing, I had to leave what I was comfortable with and pivot to try something new. I had to create opportunities. My pivots were never about choice; they were largely about survival."

She recalled that during the initial years, she didn’t have the privilege to turn down any project. "When I first started working, I said yes to everything because every opportunity was a privilege.

It was tough just to get work. I accepted every opportunity, was travelling constantly, and missed key family milestones because refusing work didn't feel like an option," she added.

Today, Priyanka’s decision-making is more intentional. "Now I get to choose. Now, I say yes with intention. I weigh the pros and cons, I think about the impact on my family, my sanity, and my long-term goals. That's how you protect your crystal balls."

Her Return to Indian Cinema

Priyanka is set to make a highly anticipated comeback to Indian cinema as Mandakini in SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, starring alongside Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

On November 15, 2025, the film’s title was officially revealed at the Globetrotter event in Hyderabad. Rajamouli shared the first glimpses with the caption, "Varanasi to the world."

Mahesh Babu wrote, "Taking in every bit of the love and energy... Here's our #Varanasi to the world…"
Priyanka added, "Just a glimpse... yet so much more. #Varanasi…"

First Look at the Film

The teaser opens with a sweeping aerial view of Varanasi, one of India’s oldest cities. It then transitions to the asteroid Sambhavi hitting Earth, showcasing visuals from Antarctica, Africa, and Varanasi’s iconic Manikarnika Ghat.

The highlight is Mahesh Babu as Rudhra, riding a bull with a trishul in hand.

Varanasi is expected to release in 2027, with the official date yet to be announced.