Acting vs. Entrepreneurship: Priyanka Opens Up About Her New Milestone

Interviewer: Congratulations on receiving the Rashtriya Gaurav Samman! How does it feel to be honored not just as an actress, but as a business owner?

Priyanka: Thank you so much! It feels absolutely amazing. To be honest, today the "actress" feeling is taking a backseat to the "businesswoman" feeling. I launched my brand, Sera Silver & Diamond, just this past December and opened our first store in January. Getting a national-level award within just three months is something I never expected. It truly feels like my "first baby" in this industry is being recognized, and I feel incredibly blessed.

Interviewer: Many people are surprised by this move. Did the idea of starting a business come to you recently?

Priyanka: Actually, no. I come from a business family. Ever since I gained consciousness as a child, I've watched my father run his business. Long before I ever dreamt of becoming an actress, I wanted to be like my father-a business owner. It has always been in my blood. I always knew I would do this; I just didn't realize I would start it quite this early!

Interviewer: There is a buzz that you might be stepping away from acting to focus on your brand. Is that true?

Priyanka: (Laughs) I addressed this on stage too! People keep asking if I'm leaving acting because I started a business. As I said, the desire to do business was there way before the acting. Right now, I'm focused on growing the brand, but acting is part of who I am. It's about expanding my horizons, not necessarily leaving one for the other.

Interviewer: You mentioned something interesting about the "Startup Culture" in your speech. Could you elaborate on that?

Priyanka: Yes, that is something I feel strongly about. If you look at states like Gujarat or Maharashtra, or even cities like Mumbai, the startup culture is massive. In Kolkata, we are still in the very early stages of that movement. I believe if our generation doesn't take the first step to build something of our own, we will stay behind. I am happy to be part of this first generation of new-age entrepreneurs from the city.

Interviewer: What is the road ahead for Sera Silver & Diamond?

Priyanka: This is just the beginning. I'm manifesting big things! Our target is to grow the brand significantly and take it all over India. I truly believe that with the hard work we are putting in, we will be receiving many more awards across the country in the next couple of years.

Interviewer: We wish you all the best for this new chapter, Priyanka!

Priyanka: Thank you so much!