A recent interview promoting the upcoming film Varanasi has triggered an unexpected discussion online after Priyanka Chopra appeared to forget her earlier association with Telugu cinema.
During a widely circulated interview, Priyanka was asked about making her Telugu debut with Varanasi. The actress reportedly responded by saying she doesn’t remember the last time she worked in a Telugu film. The moment quickly raised eyebrows, especially among fans familiar with her filmography.
Adding to the confusion, actor Mahesh Babu, who was also present, reportedly remarked that Varanasi would mark Priyanka’s first Telugu film—an assertion that is factually incorrect.
A look back at Priyanka Chopra’s Telugu outing
Contrary to the claims made during the interview, Priyanka Chopra had already appeared in a Telugu film back in 2013. She played the female lead opposite Ram Charan in Toofan, the Telugu version of the Hindi film Zanjeer, directed by Apoorva Lakhia. Although her role was relatively limited, the film is officially recognised as her Telugu cinema debut.
At the time, Priyanka had publicly expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging that the project came at a phase when she was navigating a challenging period in her Bollywood career.
Industry reactions
A senior member from the Toofan team, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed disappointment over Priyanka’s recent remarks.
“When she signed Toofan, she was enthusiastic about the project despite knowing the role wasn’t substantial. No one in the Hindi industry was offering her major roles then. It’s surprising to see her seemingly forget that phase of her career,” the source said.
Why the confusion?
Industry insiders suggest that the team behind Varanasi may be keen to position the film as Priyanka Chopra’s ‘first’ Telugu project for promotional value. However, this approach has drawn criticism, with many questioning whether marketing narratives should override well-documented facts.
As the conversation continues online, fans and cinephiles have been revisiting Priyanka’s South Indian film journey, reminding everyone that her Telugu chapter began over a decade ago.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available interviews, media reports, and industry sources. Statements attributed to individuals reflect reported accounts and interpretations. No official clarification has been issued by Priyanka Chopra or the makers of Varanasi at the time of writing. Readers are advised to treat the information as per available records.
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