Nora Fatehi on Standing Out in Bollywood: “I Have to Ask Stylists Not to Dress Me Like Other Actresses”

The star shares her struggle to maintain a unique style, her thoughts on Bollywood’s high school-like cliques, and the importance of cultural assimilation for foreign actors.

Nora Fatehi, renowned for her stunning dance numbers and acting in Bollywood, recently shared her styling challenges in the industry. The Canadian-born actress revealed that she often has to insist that her stylists and producers avoid dressing her like Janhvi Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, or Ananya Panday, as her body type is different. Although stylists sometimes struggle to understand her logic, they eventually agree with her approach.

Speaking at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Fatehi explained that, despite her years in the industry, she still has to firmly communicate her styling needs. “I have to push this on stylists and directors because they assume that since the other actresses are wearing certain outfits, I should too,” she said, highlighting that her unique body type requires a distinct approach.

Fatehi also shared that her goal in styling is to ensure that her outfits enhance, rather than distract from, her choreography and dance performances. Known for her fierce personality, she refuses to conform simply for the sake of blending in.

Beyond her styling preferences, Fatehi touched on the social dynamics of Bollywood, comparing the industry to a high school clique. Drawing from her experiences growing up in Canada and Saudi Arabia, she noted how challenging it can be for outsiders to break into established social circles. Reflecting on this dynamic, she remarked, “It’s almost worse than high school. Most of these cliques have grown up together from day one. If you’re an outsider and don’t prove yourself, learn Hindi, or assimilate, there’s no way in.”

Fatehi emphasized that for foreign actors, success in Bollywood often hinges on cultural adaptation. She observed that actors who failed to embrace local customs, language, or the nuances of the industry struggled to maintain their careers. “Many foreign actors try to highlight that they’re American or Canadian, but this only emphasizes their outsider status,” she explained.

Known for her determination, Fatehi has made it clear that her understanding of Bollywood’s complex dynamics has only strengthened her resolve to succeed and remain true to her unique identity.