Indian-American actress makes a strong remark against Priyanka Chopra: 'She hasn't helped...'

Priyanka Chopra continues to be one of the rare Indian actors who has managed to carve out a strong space for herself in Hollywood. Yet, actress Sweta Keswani recently offered a rather unfiltered perspective on Chopra’s global fame and influence. During a conversation with India Today, the Beanie Bubble star remarked that while Chopra’s journey was undeniably impressive, she had not actively contributed to uplifting or promoting other South Asian artists within the industry. According to Keswani, Chopra’s focus had largely remained on advancing her own career rather than opening doors for others.

Keswani emphasized that despite Chopra’s many achievements, she differs greatly from someone like Mindy Kaling, who she believes has been instrumental in championing South Asian representation in mainstream entertainment. She noted that Kaling has built a creative empire by writing, producing, and mentoring other South Asian talents, helping them find visibility in an industry that remains particularly tough for women of colour. In Keswani’s view, that kind of leadership and inclusivity is what truly drives change and fosters community growth in Hollywood—something she feels Chopra has not prioritized.

“I think it’s incredible what she’s (Priyanka) accomplished; there’s no two ways about that. But she’s not Mindy Kaling. She’s not helping other South Asians. She’s only helping herself, to be very honest. She’s all about herself," she said.

The actress also reflected on the internal social dynamics of Hollywood, suggesting that, much like any other industry, it is dominated by tightly knit cliques. She admitted that she has never been a part of such exclusive circles, largely due to her responsibilities as a mother. Now that her daughter is nearing her teenage years, she said she finally has more flexibility to focus on her career again. Nevertheless, she acknowledged that these social networks play a crucial role in determining who gets invited into certain projects or creative spaces.

Having relocated to the United States in 2010, Keswani married New York-based attorney Ken Andino, and the couple share a daughter together. Her Hollywood résumé continues to grow steadily, with appearances in acclaimed series like New Amsterdam, The Blacklist, AMC’s supernatural thriller NOS4A2, and Apple TV+’s anthology Roar. She also starred in As They Made Us, directed by Mayim Bialik and featuring Dustin Hoffman and Candice Bergen, and in the film The Beanie Bubble alongside Zach Galifianakis and Elizabeth Banks. She will next be seen in an upcoming episode of Law & Order: SVU with Mariska Hargitay.