Sweta Keswani Questions Priyanka Chopra’s South Asian Support

Post by : Mina Rahman

Actor Sweta Keswani, known for her roles in iconic Indian TV serials, has stirred conversation with her recent remarks about Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Now based in the US, Sweta said that while Priyanka’s success story is inspiring, she hasn’t done enough to support other South Asian artists trying to make their mark internationally.

“I think it’s incredible what Priyanka has accomplished. There’s no denying that,” Sweta admitted. “But she’s not Mindy Kaling. She’s not helping other South Asians — she’s only helping herself to be very honest. What Mindy Kaling does is amazing because she’s actually writing, producing, and creating roles for other South Asians in Hollywood.”

Sweta’s remarks underline a larger sentiment often discussed in creative circles — that representation must go beyond personal success. While Priyanka Chopra has broken global barriers as a South Asian lead in mainstream American projects, Sweta believes that collaborative progress is what truly uplifts a community.

She also pointed to the existence of “cliques” within the South Asian entertainment diaspora. “There are cliques everywhere. Some people prefer to keep their own circles tight, and I’m not part of any South Asian clique,” Sweta said, reflecting on how the industry’s power dynamics can limit inclusion.

Sweta Keswani’s Career Milestones

Sweta Keswani remains a familiar face for Indian TV audiences through hit shows like Baa Bahu Aur Baby, Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki, and Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand. Her transition to international work has been gradual but significant. In the US, she has acted in several acclaimed shows including The Blacklist, New Amsterdam, Roar, and As They Made Us. She also appeared in The Beanie Bubble and is set to feature in an episode of Law & Order: SVU.

Priyanka Chopra’s Global Rise

Priyanka Chopra, meanwhile, began her Hollywood journey with the ABC drama Quantico, which established her as one of the few South Asian leads on American television. She later ventured into films like Baywatch, Isn’t It Romantic, Love Again, and The Matrix Resurrections, proving her versatility across genres.

Her collaboration with streaming giant Prime Video on Citadel marked another milestone. The action-thriller not only showcased her as a global action star but also solidified her standing in international entertainment. Priyanka’s upcoming projects include Citadel Season 2, Heads of State, Rajamouli’s GlobeTrotter with Mahesh Babu, and The Bluff, where she plays a Caribbean pirate.

Mindy Kaling’s Broader Impact

Sweta’s comparison with Mindy Kaling draws attention to the latter’s efforts behind the camera. Mindy, who has written and produced multiple hit shows like Never Have I Ever and The Mindy Project, is celebrated for offering opportunities to underrepresented communities, particularly South Asian women.

In contrast, Priyanka’s path has been more individualistic, focusing on expanding her global stardom. Both have undeniably opened doors in different ways — one through storytelling and mentorship, and the other through visibility and star power.

The Broader Conversation

Sweta Keswani’s comments have sparked discussions on representation versus responsibility in Hollywood. Her perspective opens up questions about how established stars can leverage their platforms to amplify new voices from their community.

While fans continue to admire Priyanka’s global journey, Sweta’s views highlight an often-overlooked truth: breaking into Hollywood as a South Asian artist remains a tough climb, and collective effort could make that climb easier for many.