Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a global icon and acclaimed actress, has often been candid about the personal experiences that have shaped her life and career. One such intimate recollection she shared was about the impact her late father, Ashok Chopra, had on her understanding of time and the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones. She poignantly reflected on the times she missed spending Diwali with her family due to her hectic work commitments.
In an introspective interview with Tiffany Reid, Priyanka revealed how being away from home during Diwali celebrations for work made her realize what she had been missing after her father passed away. Recounting this period, she expressed, “Till my dad died, I didn’t have another Diwali to be with him.” These words encapsulate the deep sense of loss and the regret she feels for not being able to share more family moments when she had the chance.
Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is an integral part of Indian culture, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. For Priyanka, it held immense personal significance, a time usually spent with her loved ones. However, her flourishing career often took her to places like Europe, where Diwali wasn’t celebrated, leading her to miss this cherished festival repeatedly.
Her father’s illness became a turning point in her life, prompting a profound realization about the fleeting nature of time. “I don’t remember how many of my mother’s birthdays I have forgotten or missed. How many times did I forget to call her in my 20s? How many times did I miss Diwali because I was working in Europe, where they don’t celebrate Diwali? I just skipped it and didn’t think it was okay until I did,” Priyanka recalled. This period of reflection was marked by her father’s demise, which served as a stark reminder that life’s important moments should never be taken for granted.
Ashok Chopra passed away in 2013, succumbing to a long battle with cancer at the age of 63.
. Priyanka’s bond with her father was profound and lasting, as evidenced by the tattoo she now bears on her wrist, reading “Daddy’s little girl.” This personal tribute signifies the enduring impact he had on her life and the values he instilled in her.
In April, Priyanka further opened up on the ‘Read the Room’ podcast about coping with the enduring pain of losing her father. She conveyed how this pain never really goes away but transforms into a ‘companion’ of sorts, a constant presence that reshapes one’s perspective on life and relationships.
While navigating these personal reflections, Priyanka continues to make significant strides in her career. She is all set for her role in “Citadel Season 2,” playing special agent Nadia Sinh, a character that has been met with widespread acclaim. Additionally, she is also part of the upcoming film, “Heads Of State,” starring alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as John Cena and Idris Elba.
Despite her glittering career and a busy schedule, Priyanka’s revelations serve as a heartfelt reminder of the universal truth: life is transient, and the moments spent with loved ones become invaluable memories. Her reflections underscore the need to prioritize what truly matters, as one never knows what the future holds.
As Priyanka Chopra Jonas continues to embark on new Hollywood ventures and global projects, her personal narratives provide audiences with insight into the person behind the celebrity. It’s a touching testament to her journey of understanding the essence of time and the critical importance of family, drawing closer connections with her fans worldwide.
This story emphasizes the lesson that amidst our daily pursuits and ambitions, valuing the moments with family and friends should never be sidelined. Priyanka’s emotional retrospection on Diwali and her father’s influence urges us all to remember what is fundamentally important—cherishing those we hold dear before it’s too late.
