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Mumbai: Actress Mandana Karimi has bid an emotional farewell to India after spending nearly 16 years in the country, calling it her “second home” while announcing her departure through social media.

The actor shared the update during an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on Instagram, where she posted a video from the airport and confirmed that she was leaving India for a new chapter in her life.

“I never could imagine or believe that I could say, but goodbye India,” she said. “This is going to be hard. But after almost 16 years in India, it’s finally leaving behind my second home… and here it is to new beginnings. New country, new home, new everything.”

Emotional farewell after long stay

Mandana Karimi, who built her career in India across films, television and digital platforms, described her exit as a difficult but necessary decision. Having lived in Mumbai for over a decade and a half, she developed strong personal and professional ties in the country.

Her farewell message reflected a mix of gratitude and sadness, as she acknowledged the role India played in shaping her journey. Fans responded with messages of support, expressing both surprise and concern over her sudden departure.

Cited security concerns earlier

Earlier this year, Mandana had revealed in an interview with NDTV that she was considering leaving India due to security concerns. At the time, she refrained from sharing specific details but indicated that the decision was serious and imminent.

“Yes, I am, because of security reasons. I can’t share details until I am out,” she had said.

The actor linked her concerns to her outspoken activism, particularly regarding issues in her home country, Iran. She has been vocal on social media, frequently raising awareness and criticising authorities over various matters.

Activism and personal toll

Mandana explained that her activism had come at a significant personal cost. She stated that her efforts to speak out and support causes to Iran had made her feel vulnerable.

“My way of supporting Iran in India — being so vocal about the reality, calling out officials and not giving up — there are many reasons. My fight has been there for years in India. And now it just doesn’t make sense,” she said.

When asked if she had received threats, Mandana responded with a brief but stark answer: “Always.”

She also expressed disappointment over what she described as a lack of support during challenging times. According to her, she did not receive adequate backing from friends, institutions or the media.

“No. None. Not from friends, the government or the media. That’s why. It doesn’t feel like home here anymore. It’s been hard. But everything is in the name of Iran, Javed Shah and my people. I would do it again even without support,” she added.

Career in India

Mandana Karimi gained recognition in India through appearances in films, reality television shows and digital projects. Over the years, she became a familiar face in the entertainment industry and built a dedicated fan base.

She was last seen in the Netflix film Thar, which featured an ensemble cast and received attention for its neo-western narrative style.

Her journey in India has been marked by both professional achievements and personal challenges, making her departure a significant moment for her followers and the industry alike.

What lies ahead

While Mandana has not disclosed her next destination, she indicated that she is looking forward to starting afresh in a new country. Her message suggested a sense of hope and determination despite the emotional weight of leaving behind a place she once considered home.

The move also highlights the broader challenges faced by public figures who engage in activism, particularly when it intersects with personal safety and freedom of expression.

Conclusion

Mandana Karimi’s decision to leave India after 16 years marks the end of a long chapter in her life and career. While her departure is rooted in serious concerns, her farewell message reflects both gratitude and resilience.

As she embarks on a new journey, her story underscores the complex realities of living in the public eye, where professional success, personal beliefs and safety concerns can often collide.