Sobhita Dhulipala: The Outsider Making Waves in Hollywood
Sobhita Dhulipala, a rising star in the Indian entertainment industry, is making a splash in Hollywood with her latest film “Monkey Man,” produced by Jordan Peele and starring alongside Dev Patel. Despite her success, Dhulipala considers herself an outsider wherever she goes.
Growing up in Andhra Pradesh, a southern state in India, Dhulipala felt like an outsider in Mumbai, the country’s financial and fashion capital. Her native language, Telugu, also sets her apart in predominantly Hindi-speaking Bollywood. Now, with the release of “Monkey Man,” she finds herself once again on the outside, thrust into Hollywood’s limelight.
In a recent interview, Dhulipala shared her experience of being an outsider and how it has influenced her onscreen roles. In the Amazon Prime series “Made in Heaven,” she plays a character who schemes her way into upper-class circles, while in “Monkey Man,” she portrays a call girl catering to powerful but despicable men. For Dhulipala, playing characters on the margins who defy easy categorization is a point of pride.
Acting was not always Dhulipala’s career plan. Coming from a family of academics, she initially pursued a master’s degree in corporate law. However, her foray into modeling and TV commercials eventually led her to the entertainment industry. After winning the Miss Earth India pageant in 2013, she landed roles in Bollywood and Tollywood films before making her mark in “Made in Heaven.”
Despite her success in India, Dhulipala auditioned for the role of Sita in “Monkey Man” before seeing any significant recognition. Working with Dev Patel on his directorial debut was a collaborative and fulfilling experience for her, as the film tackles important issues and features complex characters that resonate with her.
In addition to her acting prowess, Dhulipala’s style choices have also garnered attention. Embracing Indian designers and traditional styles, she has become a fashion icon, earning praise from fans and influencers alike. Her bold choices, both on and off the screen, reflect her willingness to break stereotypes and embrace her identity.
Looking ahead, Dhulipala has her sights set on sci-fi or action movies in the future, where she hopes to take on more physically demanding roles. As she continues to challenge norms and push boundaries, Sobhita Dhulipala remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.
