Mandana Karimi opens up about leaving India: “There is gratitude, nostalgia, sadness, and uncertainty”
Actor and model Mandana Karimi has opened up about her decision to leave India, calling it one of the most emotional and transformative phases of her life. In a candid conversation with The Indian Express, Mandana reflected on her journey in India, her evolving creative identity, and the challenges of being unable to return to her homeland, Iran. Speaking about her emotional connection with India, Mandana shared, “Leaving India is emotional for me. India shaped one of the biggest chapters of my life. I grew there not only as an actor, but as a woman, an artist, and a person trying to find her voice away from home. There is gratitude, nostalgia, sadness, and uncertainty — all at the same time. But sometimes life pushes you toward reinvention. And I think I’m entering that phase now.” The actor further clarified that her departure does not mean a permanent disconnect from the country. “I don’t believe in saying goodbye forever. India will always be a part of me, and I’m sure life and ...