Actor and model Mandana Karimi has opened up about her decision to leave India, calling it one of the most emotional and transformative phases of her life. In a candid conversation with The Indian Express, Mandana reflected on her journey in India, her evolving creative identity, and the challenges of being unable to return to her homeland, Iran.

Mandana Karimi opens up about leaving India: “There is gratitude, nostalgia, sadness, and uncertainty”

Speaking about her emotional connection with India, Mandana shared, “Leaving India is emotional for me. India shaped one of the biggest chapters of my life. I grew there not only as an actor, but as a woman, an artist, and a person trying to find her voice away from home. There is gratitude, nostalgia, sadness, and uncertainty — all at the same time. But sometimes life pushes you toward reinvention. And I think I’m entering that phase now.”

The actor further clarified that her departure does not mean a permanent disconnect from the country. “I don’t believe in saying goodbye forever. India will always be a part of me, and I’m sure life and work will continue to connect me to the country in different ways,” she added.

Mandana also spoke about the deeply personal reality of being unable to return to Iran due to her outspoken activism. She said, “Iran is my home. No matter where life takes me, that will never change. But the painful reality is that I have been banned from returning to Iran for many years because of my choices, my voice, and my stance as a woman speaking openly about freedom and human rights.”

The actress revealed that she had intentionally stepped away from Bollywood nearly six years ago to explore new creative avenues. “I actually stepped away from Bollywood around six years ago when I began my journey into design, styling, consulting, and the art world. That transition was very intentional for me because creativity exists in many forms, and I wanted to explore who I was beyond cinema,” Mandana explained.

While she acknowledged Bollywood as an important chapter in her life, Mandana emphasized that she remains open to meaningful creative opportunities across industries and platforms. “Whether it’s film, modeling, design, storytelling, activism, or international collaborations — I remain open to projects that feel authentic and meaningful to me,” she concluded.

Also Read: Mandana Karimi calls out Boman Irani over his recently posted viral video on Donald Trump; questions ‘timing’ in pointed note