Imanvi Ismail: I am Indian-American, not Pakistani

In the wake of the heartbreaking terror attack in Pahalgam, which has left the nation in mourning, Telugu film debutant Imanvi Ismail found herself at the center of a storm—targeted by misinformation and online hate.

Imanvi, who is starring alongside Prabhas in the upcoming film Fauji, directed by Hanu Raghavapudi, broke her silence.

A heartfelt response

After enduring a day of relentless online trolling, Imanvi took to Instagram to set the record straight. In a deeply personal and dignified message, she condemned the violence and extended her condolences to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. Calling the incident “heartbreaking,” she emphasized the importance of unity and compassion.

Addressing the misinformation head-on, Imanvi clarified: “I am a proud Indian-American, born and raised in Los Angeles.”

She explained that her parents legally immigrated to the United States as young adults and became American citizens. Imanvi, fluent in Hindi, Telugu, Gujarati, and English, spoke of her deep connection to Indian culture, values, and the arts.

She categorically denied any association—direct or familial—with the Pakistani military, calling such allegations “fabricated lies” spread by online trolls to sow division.

Love for Indian Cinema

Imanvi shared how her Indian roots have always shaped her creative journey. After completing her university education in the U.S., she began working as an actor, choreographer, and dancer, eventually receiving opportunities to work in the Indian film industry—a world she has long admired.

“The Indian film industry has been a great influence in my life… I hope to add to the incredible legacy of the trailblazers that came before me.”

She expressed gratitude for being welcomed into this space and reaffirmed her intention to use art as a medium of unity, empathy, and healing.

Closing her statement with a message of peace, Imanvi urged people to resist divisiveness and lean into love: “As we mourn the tragic loss of life, let’s continue to spread love and uplift one another. Throughout history, art has been a medium that connects us—across cultures, people, and experiences.” Imanvi is acting as the main heroine opposite Prabhas in “Fauji”, directed by Hanu Raghavapudi. She was chosen after seeing her viral dance videos.