THE UNSTOPPABLE : NORA FATEHI

She's lighting up the entertainment industry with her dazzling dance moves, hit songs and captivating acting, driven by her ambition to make a global impact. Yet, as she confides in HELLO!, she remains girl at heart, cherishing her childhood friends, seeking a good, god-fearing man, and longing for more time with her loved ones

- ANANYA SHANKAR

A singer, dancer, YouTuber, director and actress — Nora Fatehi is certainly the jack of all trades, and also, the master of many. After nearly a decade of shining in the Indian entertainment industry, she’s still on the rise — or as she likes to say, her “hustle is still ongoing”.

As we reach the stately Trident hotel at Nariman Point in Mumbai, where her HELLO! photoshoot is set to happen, we’re struck by the gorgeous view of the Arabian Sea. But as soon as Nora walks through the door — in a casual tracksuit with no make-up on — all eyes are immediately trained on her. She’s a true diva, we think, as she confidently selects outfits that pique her interest — and one who definitely knows her own mind.

Right off the bat, what sets Nora apart is her unique background: of Moroccan origin, she grew up in Toronto and achieved a successful career in India. Embracing her multicultural background, she sees it as a strength that distinguishes her work. “I bring something different to the table,” she tells us, after all, “The best part about looking up to a celebrity is being able to relate to them. So thankfully, with my diverse background, many can connect with me.” And though she has assimilated into Indian culture and society, she admits, “It does feel like a responsibility sometimes because I never want to make anyone feel left out…” In fact, she harks back to her roots in her latest eponymous single, ‘Nora’, using her unique upbringing to her advantage — flaunting “a part of Morocco that I’ve never shown anybody through my music and dance, while also representing India and Canada.”