Priyanka Chopra says girls must be fierce: 'My dad used to always tell me to be the fiercest one in the room'

Priyanka Chopra has long spoken about strength, ambition and women’s empowerment. Now in a recent interview, she has underlined why fierceness is not just desirable but essential, especially for young girls.



Speaking to India Today Priyanka stressed the need for early self-belief. “It’s very important for girls to be fierce,” she said.

“It’s very important for us to find agency, find our voice very early. It’s important for us to be surrounded by confidence.”

A moment from 'The Bluff' that shaped her perspective

During the interview Priyanka discussed a scene from her upcoming film 'The Bluff'. It captures a striking balance of vulnerability and power. She recalled how, in the middle of a fight sequence, her character reassures her child by saying, “Mama is okay.”

How her father shaped her fearless outlook

Priyanka also revealed that this fierce mindset was encouraged at home. She said, “My dad used to always tell me to be the fiercest one in the room, and not be afraid if someone tells you that you’re too fierce, because that’s what happens to girls.”

She added that society often reacts differently when women display qualities that are praised in men. “We are told we are too tenacious, too ambitious, too fierce, too intelligent, but men are called like, what a boss.”

The contrast continues to frustrate her. But it has also driven her to speak louder for equality and confidence among women.

Fierceness as advocacy and self-preservation

Priyanka said she channels her inner strength even when she faces uncertainty. “So whether I’m unsure about where I’m going, I always try to have a belief in me, and I think that’s the fierceness you’re talking about, and I advocate that for girls everywhere,” she said.

'Varanasi' actor added a reminder about the world women navigate daily. “We live in a world where if you don’t stand up for yourself and set the tone, it might be very hard for other people to stand up for you, unfortunately.”

Speaking about ‘Varanasi’ and collaborating with SS Rajamouli

Priyanka also spoke about her upcoming project Varanasi. During a recent premiere event, she expressed excitement about working with celebrated filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli.

“Well, the filmmaker's name is SS Rajamouli sir, and he is one of the best that we have in India. His movie is going to be really career-defining for me, I think, and I'm very excited about it,” Priyanka Chopra said. 'Varanasi' stars Mahesh Babu, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Priyanka Chopra in the lead.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”