Beauty Pageant Winner Priyanka Bajaj Sibal to Debut in Short Film ‘Kathakaar’ Featuring Ruslaan Mumtaz

Priyanka Bajaj Sibal, who won the coveted title of Mrs. India in 2022, is making her Bollywood debut with Ruslaan Mumtaz-starrer ‘Kathakaar,’ a gripping short film where she tackles the role of a cop unraveling a child trafficking mystery. Written and directed by talented filmmaker Anshuman Chaturvedi, this film takes the lead character played by Priyanka on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

“Acting chose me, a call to express deep emotions and stories. I’ve always felt that acting is a special opportunity that allows you to live many lives and experience different worlds vicariously through the characters you portray,” she said.

Prior to her foray into acting, Priyanka is already a successful international model who endorses global fashion brands, and has lent her face to leading designer collections. The multitalented leading lady of ‘Kathakaar’ has been the star of a music video titled ‘Wheel.’

Two-time national pageant winner, Priyanka has also represented India on the international platform in the United States in 2023, where she was awarded Best Model.

Exemplifying “beauty with brains,” Priyanka is a qualified Chartered Accountant. So what brought her from the world of number crunching to beauty pageants and eventually to the film world? “After winning the Mrs. India 2021, and 2022 titles — which weren’t just titles for me but a declaration of dedication to excel in all that I undertake and evolve as a person, I felt a natural calling to explore the world of acting!”

Under the mentorship of the acclaimed Atul Mongia, Priyanka prioritized honing the art of acting with dedication and eagerness to perform the challenging role she has portrayed in ‘Kathakaar.’ To perform Kathak in the film, she sought specialized dance training from celebrity Kathak trainer Lalita Soni.

“Being directed by Anshuman Chaturvedi in this film was a deep dive into authenticity. His clear vision and pursuit of realism made acting feel like living the character’s truth,” said Priyanka.

On being asked about her experience of working with Ruslaan Mumtaz, she says, “He is a natural actor, but more importantly Ruslaan went a step further and supported me in portraying a realistic on-screen camaraderie between the cops during the shoot. And all of this comes through in the movie.”

Priyanka reveals the reason behind choosing ‘Kathaakaar’ for her film debut, “I was drawn to this project as it tells the inspiring tale of a strong woman who steadfastly ignores the cacophony of doubts and skepticism surrounding her. With her unwavering intelligence and bravery, she navigates through challenges to solve a complex case.”