Like mother, like daughter

She may be better known as Priyanka Chopra’s mother, but Dr Madhu Chopra is pretty accomplished herself. A former Army doctor, she is now producing films under their production house, Purple Pebble.

Interestingly, most of the films made under their banner are in regional languages. “Priyanka and all of us from PP feel that regional films need to get noticed globally. I have ventured into producing Bhojpuri and Punjabi films as well,” she says.

Madhu admits to getting help from Priyanka on a daily basis. “I work under Priyanka’s guidance. Right from technicalities to creativity, she is very knowledgeable. She has done enough in her acting career and feels that she needs to spread her wings in a different direction.”

Reminiscing about Priyanka’s schooldays, Madhu says, “She was very good at studies. She loved cracking jokes and playing pranks. But all the teachers loved her as she was a bright child.” Madhu says that Priyanka was always very talented. “She would write and direct plays. Priyanka would also choreograph wonderful dance numbers. We are proud of her.”

She adds, “Priyanka always followed ethical values. The culture and environment in the Army is such that every child learns to respect their elders while also becoming independent. At home too, we always prefer an open discussion on things.”

On the controversy of Pakistani actors working in Indian films, she says, “All the Pakistani actors took legal permission and then worked in our films. However, we should try not to cast any Pak actors hereafter. People may feel the same when Priyanka gets to work in Hollywood films.”