Dr. Madhu Chopra - Mother of India's 'Desi Girl' (Doctor and Founder of Purple Pebble Pictures)

"Success is wonderful, but what matters most is remaining true to yourself."

Q. Let’s begin with your roots. Could you share a bit about your upbringing and how it shaped you?

I was born into a Bihari-Magahi Hindu family in Jharkhand as the eldest daughter of a doctor. Growing up in a household that valued education and service to the community laid the foundation for my career. Watching my father serve others inspired me to pursue medicine, and the discipline instilled in me during those early years has carried me through every phase of my life.


Q. You’re a trained ENT specialist and served in the Indian Armed Forces. That must have been a unique experience. How did your time in the military influence your life and career?

My years in the Armed Forces were transformative. The military doesn’t just give you a job; it gives you a sense of purpose. The discipline, resilience, and leadership skills I learned during my service are invaluable. Plus, being a physician in the military meant facing unique challenges, often working in remote locations under resource-constrained conditions. It taught me adaptability and the importance of teamwork—qualities I’ve carried into every aspect of my life. This I even incorporated in my personal life while raising my kids - Priyanka and Siddharth.


Q. What was Priyanka like as a child?

Priyanka was an incredibly vivacious child. Being from an army family, we moved quite frequently. She lived in cities like Bareilly, Lucknow, and even spent some time in the US. I remember she was always adaptable, making friends easily wherever we went. She had this natural confidence and leadership quality, even in school. She was also very protective of her younger brother, Siddharth.


Q. You and your late husband, Dr. Ashok Chopra, were both physicians. Did you initially want Priyanka to follow in your footsteps?

Yes, initially we did hope she would become a doctor. She was actually preparing to study engineering and was particularly interested in aeronautical engineering. But life had other plans. You know, both her father and I believed in letting our children explore their interests. When she showed interest in the Miss India pageant, though I was hesitant at first, we supported her decision.


Q. Tell us about the day Priyanka won Miss World. What was going through your mind?

Oh, that day in 2000 is permanently etched in my memory! She was just 18, competing against women from around the world. When they announced her name, I couldn't hold back my tears. Her father was absolutely beaming with pride. It was overwhelming to see our daughter, this young girl from a small town in India, standing there with the crown. But you know what touched me most? The first thing she did after winning was look for us in the crowd.


Q. How did you handle the transition when she entered Bollywood?

Those early days were challenging. As parents, we were protective and concerned. The film industry was completely new to us. I actually moved to Mumbai with her initially to help her navigate this new world. We made sure she had proper guidance and support. Her father was particularly instrumental in managing her early career decisions. He always taught her to be professional and respect her commitments.

Q. Your family has faced its share of challenges, particularly when Dr. Ashok Chopra passed away in 2013. How did that affect you and Priyanka?

That was an incredibly difficult time for all of us. Priyanka and her father shared a special bond. She has his tattoo - "Daddy's little girl" - and it wasn't just words; she truly was his little girl. She was filming "Mary Kom" during that period, and the way she handled her grief while maintaining her professional commitments showed her incredible strength. She gets that resilience from him.


Q. Let's talk about your business venture together, Purple Pebble Pictures. How did that come about?

The idea came from our shared desire to make a difference in the Indian film industry. We wanted to promote regional cinema and give opportunities to new talent. Our first Marathi film, "Ventilator," won three National Awards. We've produced films in Bhojpuri, Punjabi, and several other languages. Working with Priyanka as a business partner has added a new dimension to our relationship.


Q. How did you react when Priyanka decided to venture into Hollywood?

I was supportive but naturally concerned. It meant she would be living in another country, in a completely different industry. But Priyanka has always been a trailblazer. When she sets her mind to something, she gives it her all. Watching her successfully navigate Hollywood while maintaining her Indian identity has been remarkable. She's truly become a global ambassador for our culture.


Q. What was your first impression of Nick Jonas when Priyanka introduced him to you?

Nick is such a sweetu person. What struck me most was his respect for our culture and traditions. During the wedding celebrations, the way he embraced all our customs was beautiful to see. He's very family-oriented, which is very important to us. Now, seeing him as a father to Malti, I couldn't have asked for a better son-in-law.


Q. Speaking of Malti, how has becoming a grandmother changed you?

Oh, it's the most beautiful feeling! Malti is such a blessing. Watching Priyanka as a mother makes me so proud. She's so hands-on, despite her busy schedule. It brings back memories of when Priyanka was little. You know, sometimes I see Priyanka doing things with Malti exactly the way I used to do with her, and it just warms my heart.


Q. What's one piece of advice you gave Priyanka that you think has served her well?

I always told her to never forget her roots and to stay humble. Success is wonderful, but what matters most is remaining true to yourself. I also emphasized the importance of financial independence for women. These are values I hope she'll pass on to Malti as well.


Q. Finally, what's your hope for Priyanka's future?

As a mother, I just want her to be happy and content. She's achieved so much already, but I know she has so much more to give to the world. I hope she continues to break barriers and inspire others, especially young girls from small towns who dare to dream big. Most importantly, I hope she continues to be the loving, compassionate person she's always been.

BIO :

Dr. Madhu Akhouri Chopra is a multifaceted professional—a trained ENT specialist from AFMC Pune, a former officer in the Indian Armed Forces, and a successful businesswoman. She co-founded Purple Pebble Pictures with her daughter, Priyanka Chopra, producing meaningful films, including regional cinema. She also runs Studio Aesthetique, a leading cosmetic clinic. A dedicated mother, Dr. Chopra has supported her children, Priyanka and Siddharth, through their diverse journeys.