Though Bollywood has a few actor-turned-singers, no one has made a mark in the west for their singing abilities the way Priyanka Chopra now has. She is a name people in the west are familiar with, what with international singer, rapper and record producer Pitbull featuring in her second single, Exotic. However, Priyanka is now back to Bollywood.
And she has just resumed work with the shoot of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Mary Kom biopic. She is also doing Yash Raj Films’ Gunday.
You’re resuming work after your father passed away in June. You were very close to him. Do you and your family feel a sense of emptiness?
It is a topic which is extremely personal for me. I guard my personal life and my family life ferociously. That’s the one part of me that I would always like to keep to myself and would like not to share with anyone.
Would you be open to the songs from your music album being used in any of your films?
My songs can be used in movies, I don’t mind that. My previous single has been used in the NFL (National Football League in USA) and I even launched one electro-dance number which is only played at nightclubs in America. So really, if my songs fit in well, I don’t see a reason for them to not be used.
What’s more difficult, singing or acting?
The music industry is very different. After a movie releases, you forget about it. Yes, you put a lot of effort into the making, but after a Friday, it’s over. As for music, it has to sustain and grow.
Why did you add so many Indian elements to this track?
Indian music has been stereotyped in the west. Our music is all about fun and I wanted to add a desi tadka to my latest song. I am an amalgamation of the east and the west and that’s what I’d like my music to be too. Moreover, this song, according to me, represents India.
Both your tracks have got a good response. What else is in store?
Let me continue to surprise the audience. Whether it’s my movies or my songs, I like being organic. I’ve never been a planner and have always gone with my gut. I’m like a kid in a toy store who wants to explore everything. I may or may not succeed in whatever I do, but I would like to keep the surprise element going.
Both your tracks have got a good response. What else is in store?
Let me continue to surprise the audience. Whether it’s my movies or my songs, I like being organic. I’ve never been a planner and have always gone with my gut. I’m like a kid in a toy store who wants to explore everything. I may or may not succeed in whatever I do, but I would like to keep the surprise element going.