New Delhi: 

Rockstar actress Nargis Fakhri graced the Global Summit UAE Edition 2025 in Dubai on June 19. In a fun conversation , Nargis Fakhri opened up about her experience working on Akshay Kumar-starrer Housefull 5. She also shared about her journey as an outsider in Bollywood and how it became her home. The actress, who has worked in Hollywood movies, also opened up about what made her take up projects outside Bollywood.

Nargis never had a plan to become an actress. Sharing about the same, she said, “Rockstar left an indelible impression on my heart. The film left a strong impression on people’s emotions. So, I am grateful that I got to be a part of that.” It opened a lot of doors. I decided not to stay after Rockstar. One of the assistant directors of the film convinced me to do the film. And I decided it’s a new challenge, a new experience, and I will just leave after. But then, I really loved working as an actor. So, I wanted to stay, and I got more films, such as Madras Cafe, Main Tera Hero, and other films. So roles kept coming, and I happily took them.”

What was the real challenge as an outsider for Nargis Fakhri?

“When I look back, my mindset was different, my thought process was different. I was entering a new space I had no idea about. Everything was new for me. I didn’t know how to manoeuvre. I had to take baby steps, but people were welcoming. I didn’t have any godfather or guidance, so it was tough for me. Now, there are so many different opportunities because of the digital age. It’s great because now so many people can get the opportunity to showcase their talents.”

Speaking on her experience working on Housefull 5, she said, “There are so many words and so many feelings inside. My experience was amazing; it was so much fun. I don’t know if you can imagine what it’s like to work with so many talented actors. Every day was so much fun; you are always laughing, and you love coming to work. You loved meeting these amazing actors, and everyone got along. Everyone was like one big family.”

Nargis Fakhri on her journey in Bollywood:

“I started in 2011. I guess I have been around for 10-plus years in Bollywood. I don’t feel like an outsider anymore. The journey has been tumultuous. I have never rehearsed, and I am very authentic. When I say tumultuous, it’s not only the industry but also my life. Back then, I was a different person and had a different thought process. I was more free-spirited; I was authentic and didn’t care about anything except for being happy. But as I experienced different things, you change as a person. Whereas now, my mind is very different, and it’s more focused.”

What made Nargis Fakhri choose Hollywood films?

“I love Bollywood, and I am continuing to work there, but as an actor, you want to do different things and different roles. I am an American, and I am from the United States of America. If an opportunity comes to me, I am going to take it. If an Arabic film comes to me, I am going to take it. If a Chinese film comes to me, I will take it because for me, it’s about experiencing everything. I don’t want to leave any rock unturned.

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