Bollywood actress and former beauty queen Urvashi Rautela has added yet another feather to her cap—becoming the first Indian female artist to perform in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. She also earned a record-breaking Rs 7 crore (34 lakh Saudi Riyal) for the performance, which was a cultural crossover.
In an exclusive interview with Moneycontrol, Urvashi Rautela spoke about the overwhelming love she received in Saudi Arabia, being India's biggest female global icon, and the preparation that went into the performance that has now gone viral.
Getting Rs 7 crore for her performance is a milestone that cements her position as one of the highest-paid performers on the international stage.
Her electrifying performance, delivered in a dazzling black and silver outfit, left many spellbound and set the internet ablaze.
She also spoke about the immense preparation behind the scenes, and the responsibility of being called India’s biggest female global icon. She also shared insights into her upcoming films, Welcome 3 and Kasoor 2.
Here are excerpts from the exclusive conversation:
Ques: Urvashi, how was the response to your trip in Saudi Arabia?
Urvashi: My trip to Saudi Arabia was nothing short of extraordinary. To be the first female artist to perform in Jeddah Saudi Arabia .The warmth, love, and hospitality I received from the people of Jeddah and beyond left me deeply touched. It was a beautiful cultural exchange — and to see such admiration and appreciation for Indian talent was incredibly fulfilling.
Ques: What is the kind of love you have been receiving from Saudi Arabia after your performance?
Urvashi: The love has been overwhelmingly beautiful. I’ve received thousands of heartfelt messages, gifts, and even poetry from Saudi fans. Many told me they felt proud to see a woman from India representing the strength, elegance, and power of performance at a global level. That kind of emotional connection is rare, and I treasure it deeply.
Urvashi Rautela attended Wimbledon 2025 finals
Ques: You are being called the highest-paid performing artiste globally. How does it feel?
Urvashi: It’s an honour that comes with great humility. Being acknowledged on a global scale for the value of my work is deeply encouraging. For me, it’s never just about the number, it’s about the standard it sets, especially for women in the industry. It signifies that female artists can command equal, if not greater, recognition and respect.
Ques: You reportedly earned a staggering Rs 7 crore for your performance in Jeddah, making history as the highest-paid Indian actress for an international show. How does it feel to reach such a milestone?
Urvashi: It feels like a divine reward for years of dedication, discipline, and belief in my craft. This moment is historic not just for me, but for every Indian girl who dares to dream big. I’ve always believed in rewriting the narrative and I hope this milestone opens more doors and creates more space for Indian women globally.
Ques: With over 160 million followers across social media, you have one of the largest fan bases in the world. How do you stay grounded amid this kind of global attention?
Urvashi: My roots, my family, and my spiritual grounding keep me centered. I remind myself daily that fame is fleeting, but purpose is permanent. I see my platform as a responsibility - to uplift, to inspire, and to remain authentic. And I never forget that without the love of my fans, none of this would be possible.
Ques: The video of your Jeddah performance is going viral. How did it feel to receive such a heartwarming response from across the globe?
Urvashi: It’s truly emotional. That performance came from the deepest part of my soul, and to see people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds celebrating it so passionately, it is beyond rewarding. Art has no borders, and that night proved it. I feel like I danced not just for a crowd, but for the world.
Ques: You were seen enjoying yourself on stage in that black and silver outfit. Tell us something about your prep and the vibe of the event that night.
Urvashi: Yes, that outfit was custom-designed to reflect both royalty and strength, a blend of Indian glamour and international edge. I prepped like an athlete before that show - dance rehearsals, stamina building, vocal warm-ups, and mental visualization. The vibe in Jeddah was electric. It felt like a beautiful union of cultures. I was completely immersed, body and soul.
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Ques: What does it mean to you to be called ‘India’s biggest female global icon’? Do you feel any added responsibility with that title?
Urvashi: It’s humbling and empowering. Yes, there’s definitely a responsibility, to represent India with integrity, to use my voice meaningfully, and to keep breaking barriers. I’ve always believed in leading by example. Being called a global icon is not just about popularity, it’s about impact. And I’m committed to creating a legacy that matters.
Ques: You’ve performed at many prestigious platforms before, how different was the energy and crowd in Jeddah?
Urvashi: The energy in Jeddah was powerful yet deeply respectful. There was a soulful enthusiasm in the audience, you could feel their excitement, curiosity, and admiration. The way they embraced me, despite cultural differences, was moving. It felt like history was being made not just a performance, but a moment of unity.
Ques: Tell us a little about your upcoming movies – Welcome 3 and Kasoor 2.
Urvashi: Absolutely. Welcome 3 is going to be a rollercoaster ride - a full-blown entertainer with top-tier action, comedy, and a spectacular cast. It’s one of the most anticipated films and I can’t wait for the audience to see a never-before-seen side of me.
Kasoor 2, on the other hand, is intense, emotional, and mysterious, which is a complete contrast. It’s a character that challenged me deeply as an actor. Both films are incredibly close to my heart and I’m sure audiences across the world will connect with them
Urvashi is a regular face at the Cannes Film Festival and was also a part of the hit film Daaku Maharaj.
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