Desi Beats Meet Holiday Cheer: Priyanka Chopra Reimagines ‘Last Christmas’ For Gurinder Chadha’s Festive Film

Updated: November 08, 2025 15:45

Image Source : News India Times

Priyanka Chopra returns to music with a desi rendition of Wham!’s classic “Last Christmas” for Gurinder Chadha’s upcoming musical film “Christmas Karma.” Blending Indian instrumentation with festive nostalgia, the song headlines a diverse soundtrack celebrating diaspora culture. The film releases November 14 in the UK, Ireland, and the US, and December 12 in India.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas has made a vibrant comeback to singing with a reimagined version of the beloved holiday anthem “Last Christmas.” Infused with Indian musical elements, the track is part of Gurinder Chadha’s new festive film “Christmas Karma,” a Bollywood-inspired musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.”

The film, set to release in the UK, Ireland, and the US on November 14 and in India on December 12 via PVRINOX Pictures, explores themes of redemption and cultural celebration through music and storytelling. Chadha, known for her diaspora-centric narratives, brings together a multicultural cast and soundtrack to reflect Britain’s diverse communities.

Key Highlights:
Musical Comeback: Priyanka Chopra’s last major music release was in 2014. Her return with “Last Christmas (Desi Version)” marks a new chapter, blending her global appeal with Indian roots.

Soundtrack Spotlight: The song is part of the “Christmas Karma” original motion picture album, which features a mix of genres and languages, aiming to resonate with audiences across cultures.

Cinematic Collaboration: Gurinder Chadha, acclaimed for films like “Bend It Like Beckham” and “Blinded by the Light,” continues her tradition of spotlighting South Asian stories in Western settings. Chopra praised Chadha’s authenticity and commitment to diaspora narratives.

Cultural Fusion: The desi twist includes Indian instruments and rhythmic layers, giving the classic tune a fresh identity while retaining its emotional core. It’s a celebration of heritage and holiday spirit.

Mixed Reactions: While fans welcomed Chopra’s musical return, some online responses critiqued the lip-syncing and vocal execution. Nonetheless, the song has sparked conversations around representation and creative reinterpretation.

Legacy and Impact: Chopra’s previous singles like “In My City” and “Exotic” showcased her crossover potential. With “Christmas Karma,” she reaffirms her versatility as both actor and singer, contributing to a film that bridges East and West.

Sources: Livemint, NewsDrum, News18, Hindustan Times, Times of India.