Indian Celebrities with Foreign Citizenship: A Comprehensive Guide
India is home to many talented celebrities, but some have taken the step of acquiring foreign citizenship, allowing them to reside and work in multiple countries. Here, we explore some notable examples of Indian celebrities with dual or foreign citizenships, and the reasons behind these choices.
Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas
Actress and producer Priyanka Chopra made headlines when she became a U.S. citizen in 2017, after marrying American singer Nick Jonas. Her decision to dual citizenship allows her to retain her connection to both India and the United States while pursuing her career and family life.
Irfan Khan and British Citizenship
While late actor Irfan Khan may no longer be with us, his contributions to Indian cinema are still celebrated. Irfan held British citizenship after working in the UK, which allowed him to move freely between the two countries while continuing his successful acting career.
A.R. Rahman and Malaysian Citizenship
Music composer and artist A.R. Rahman has an interesting story behind his foreign citizenship. He acquired Malaysian citizenship in 2018, which has not only given him a passport from a country rich in cultural heritage but also opened new opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Naseeruddin Shah and UK Residency
Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah has a permanent residency status in the United Kingdom. This status allows him to live and work in both India and the UK, maintaining strong ties with his art and his home country.
Kareena Kapoor Khan and British Dual Citizenship
Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan holds both British and Indian citizenship through her mother, Babita. Her dual citizenship enables her to reside and work in both countries, enjoying the benefits of both nations.
Baba Ramdev and U.S. Green Card
Yoga guru Baba Ramdev has been reported to hold a green card, allowing him to reside in the United States as a permanent resident. This choice has enabled him to reach a global audience and share his teachings with the world.
Sanjay Dutt and United States Citizenship
Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt has held U.S. citizenship. His decision to become a U.S. citizen has allowed him to explore new opportunities in the entertainment industry while retaining his roots in India.
M.S. Dhoni and U.S. Green Card
Bollywood and cricket legend M.S. Dhoni reportedly holds a U.S. green card, which allows him to work in the United States and maintain his global connections.
Deepika Padukone and Danish Citizenship
Acknowledged as one of the highest-paid actresses in Bollywood, Deepika Padukone was born in Denmark. She holds Danish citizenship despite being raised in Bangalore, India. Her early years in Denmark shaped her and continue to influence her today.
Akshay Kumar and Honorary Canadian Passport
Actor Akshay Kumar is not an Indian citizen. He was born in Amritsar, Punjab, and raised in Delhi, but now holds an honorary Canadian passport. This special status allows him to work and travel internationally without the formal barriers of citizenship.
Katrina Kaif and British Nationality
Popular actress Katrina Kaif of British parentage, with a father of Kashmiri origin and an English mother, represents a unique blend of cultures. She has been working in Bollywood since 2003 and holds British nationality, which allows her to maintain her international appeal.
Imran Khan and U.S. Citizenship
Bollywood perfectionist and Aamir Khan's nephew, Imran Khan, is a U.S. citizen. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, he moved to India with his mother after his parents divorced. His U.S. citizenship provides him with opportunities in both countries.
Jacqueline Fernandez and Sri Lankan Father-Malaysian Mother
Despite making a significant impact in Bollywood, actress Jacqueline Fernandez does not hold Indian citizenship. She was born to a Sri Lankan father and a Malaysian mother. This unique background has influenced her career and her cultural identity.
Alia Bhatt and British Citizenship
Actress Alia Bhatt could not vote during India's 2019 General Elections since she holds a British passport. Her father, Mahesh Bhatt, and her mother, Soni Razdan, are of British origin, leading to Alia's acquisition of British citizenship. This passport allows her to work and travel globally.
These celebrities have chosen to embrace the opportunities that come with dual citizenship, allowing them to maintain their Indian roots while pursuing international careers. Whether it's through marriage, work, or personal choice, these actors and artists have found a way to balance their lives across different countries.