Priyanka Chopra Birthday Special: 9 lesser-known facts about the Global star

Priyanka Chopra Birthday Special: Priyanka Chopra Jonas celebrates her birthday today, and there is no better time to look back at the incredible journey of one of India's biggest global stars. From winning beauty pageants to conquering Bollywood and Hollywood, Priyanka has achieved remarkable success. But behind the fame are many lesser-known stories that make her journey even more inspiring.

On her special day, here are 9 interesting facts about the actress that every fan should know.

1. Acting Was Never Part of Her Original Plan

Before becoming an actress, Priyanka Chopra had very different career dreams. She wanted to study aeronautical engineering or criminal psychology. However, her life changed when her mother secretly entered her into the Femina Miss India 2000 competition. Priyanka went on to win the Miss World 2000 crown, and soon after, she stepped into the world of films.

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2. She Overcame a Career-Changing Surgery

In her memoir Unfinished, Priyanka revealed one of the most difficult phases of her life. In 2001, she underwent surgery to remove a nasal polyp, but the procedure went wrong and the bridge of her nose collapsed. The setback affected both her confidence and career. However, Priyanka refused to give up, underwent corrective surgeries, and made a strong comeback in the film industry.

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3. She Created History Across the World

Priyanka has broken several barriers during her career. She became the first South Asian woman to headline an American primetime network TV series with Quantico. She also became the first Indian actress to have her foot impression cast at Italy's Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, where she joined international icons like Marilyn Monroe.

In 2019, Mattel honoured her with a special Barbie doll under its Shero programme, celebrating women who inspire millions.

4. She Almost Entered the Guinness World Records

In the 2009 romantic comedy What's Your Raashee?, Priyanka played 12 different characters in a single film. The performance almost earned her a place in the Guinness World Records for the most roles played by a female actor in one movie.

5. She Faced Bullying During Her Teenage Years

Long before becoming a global celebrity, Priyanka spent part of her teenage years studying in the United States. She has spoken openly about facing severe bullying in school because of her appearance and background. Those difficult experiences made her stronger and prepared her for the challenges that came later in life.

6. She Missed Out on Some Big Bollywood Films

Even after becoming a successful actress, Priyanka missed several high-profile films. She was reportedly the first choice for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi, but the role eventually went to Alia Bhatt. She was also considered for Bhansali's planned biopic on poet Sahir Ludhianvi and was once the original choice for Umrao Jaan before the casting changed.

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7. Her First Bollywood Hit Was Andaaz

Priyanka's first major Bollywood success came with Andaaz in 2003. The film also introduced Lara Dutta, and while many believed Lara would become the bigger star, Priyanka's screen presence impressed audiences and filmmakers alike. It marked the beginning of a remarkable career.

8. She Loves Indian Food

Despite living abroad for many years, Priyanka has never hidden her love for Indian food. One of her favourite comfort meals is aloo paratha topped with plenty of ghee. She has often spoken about missing Indian home-cooked food while working overseas.

9. Her Personal Life Always Made Headlines

Before marrying singer and actor Nick Jonas in 2018, Priyanka's personal life often attracted media attention. Over the years, she has remained focused on balancing her personal happiness with a successful international career, becoming one of India's most recognised global celebrities.

From overcoming personal setbacks and career disappointments to becoming an international icon, Priyanka Chopra's journey is a story of determination and resilience.

- PTC PUNJABI