Jacqueline Fernandez is celebrating 15 years in the entertainment industry, a milestone marked by both triumphs and challenges. Reflecting on her journey, the 39-year-old Sri Lankan actress credits resilience and self-belief as key factors that have helped her navigate the ups and downs of her career. “There are always going to be tough days, but I remind myself why I started this journey. Having a strong support system of loved ones and focusing on what makes me happy keeps me grounded,” Fernandez shares.
The actress, who first gained fame in Bollywood, says that her experience in India has been one of acceptance and growth. “I’m a South Asian, so there are many cultural similarities that I’ve also grown up with—whether it’s enjoying curry and rice in tropical weather or the emphasis on family values,” she explains. While adapting to the language and cultural nuances of India was initially challenging, the warmth of the Indian audience quickly made her feel at home. “Indians today embrace their roots while being open to global perspectives,” she adds.
In addition to her acting career, Fernandez has recently ventured into music with the release of her debut single, “Stormrider.” The song has resonated deeply with listeners, particularly its themes of resilience and empowerment. “The response has been so encouraging. It’s amazing to hear from fans about how much they connect with the song,” she says. The experience has ignited a passion for music, and Fernandez is eager to explore this new artistic avenue further. “Every step of the process was about channelling my evolution as an artiste into something meaningful. It’s more than just a song; it’s a piece of my journey,” she notes.
Interestingly, music has always been a part of Fernandez’s life. Her father, a part-time DJ, introduced her to a wide range of music from the ’50s to the ’70s. “Our home was filled with records, and that exposure to diverse musical genres laid the foundation for my love of music,” she recalls. With her newfound enthusiasm for music, she hints at more projects to come. “Right now, I’m exploring solo music as a powerful medium for storytelling. There are more songs and possibly an album in the works, each reflecting a different side of me as an artist,” she reveals.
Meanwhile, Fernandez is busy with her upcoming film Housefull 5, where she shares an enjoyable camaraderie with her co-stars, including Akshay Kumar. Although details about the film are under wraps, she expresses excitement about the fun energy on set. “It’s such a fun movie, and the camaraderie on set with all of them is so special,” she says.
As she reflects on her 15-year career and looks toward the future, Jacqueline Fernandez continues to evolve as both an actress and an artist.