Delnaaz Irani: Stardom comes with responsibility, not just perks

Actress Delnaaz Irani has enjoyed a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, and while she acknowledges the glamour and perks that come with being a public figure, she is equally aware of the responsibility that tags along.

“Being a celebrity is fantastic—there are plenty of privileges—but it also comes with immense responsibility,” she shares. “Of course, we’re not running a moral policing camp. Everyone is entitled to live life their way. But at the same time, people look up to us, they follow us, they’re inspired by what we do. So I make it a point to do only what my heart aligns with—what feels right to me. I would never take a shortcut to success or endorse something that goes against my values. I believe in choosing the right path, both for myself and for those who may be influenced by me.”

Reflecting on her own youth, Delnaaz fondly recalls how she once emulated her favorite stars. “When I was in the 7th or 8th grade, I saw Neelam Kothari in Jawani and I was obsessed! I’d tell my mom, ‘Oil my hair, I want Neelam’s long, straight hair!’ I’d style my clothes just like hers in Jawani and Love 86. Then came Pooja Bhatt—she became my style icon. Every time she changed her hairstyle, I would too. If she had a perm, I’d get one. If she got fringes, I followed suit. I even told my mom to stitch me dresses like hers, or I’d go to the market to find similar ones. I followed her to the tee—it was pure admiration.”

Being a celebrity is fantastic—there are plenty of privileges—but it also comes with immense responsibility

- Denlaaz Irani

Now, as someone others look up to, Delnaaz sees the same cycle repeat itself. “When I was on Nach Baliye and other dance shows, women would come up to me and say, ‘We saw you in that dress and wore something similar.’ Or they’d say, ‘You dance so well, my daughter joined dance classes too. If you can do it, why can’t we?’ Housewives would tell me how inspired they were to see someone of my body type dancing so confidently. I still remember Saroj Khan once told me, ‘With your weight, the way you move so gracefully—many women will look up to you.’ And she was right. So many women started dancing again just because they saw me do it.”

This awareness has also shaped the choices Delnaaz makes professionally. “When it comes to brand collaborations, I’m very selective. I only endorse products I personally use or truly believe in. I know people trust my choices, and I take that very seriously,” she says.

Ultimately, the love and admiration she receives from fans make it all worthwhile. “It feels amazing when people say they’re inspired by you. That kind of connection is incredibly special. Being a celebrity isn’t just about fame—it’s about making a positive impact.”