For actress Delnaaz Irani, known for shows like Yess Boss, Mannat and Kabhi Kabhie Ittefaq Se, and who will next be seen in Chumbak on Netflix, travel holds a significance that goes beyond visiting new destinations or clicking beautiful pictures. She believes that stepping away from the usual routine allows one to experience life differently, meet new people, understand different cultures and gain a fresh perspective. For Delnaaz, travelling also allows one to reflect on their priorities and return with a renewed sense of energy and appreciation for life.
Talking about the significance of travelling in her life, Delnaaz says, “Travel has always been very important to me because it gives me a chance to step away from my routine and simply experience life. When you travel, you meet different people, see different cultures and realise that there are so many ways of living and looking at the world. For me, it is not just about visiting a new place or taking beautiful pictures. It is about coming back with a refreshed mind and a new energy. Sometimes, you need to physically step away from your everyday life to understand what really matters to you.”
While travel can offer clarity and a change in perspective, Delnaaz doesn’t believe it should be compared with therapy. She explains, “I wouldn’t compare travel and therapy because both have their own place. Therapy allows you to look inward, while travel often makes you look outward. When you are away from your familiar surroundings, you are exposed to new experiences and perspectives, and that can be very powerful. Travel can make you realise that a problem which felt enormous in your everyday life may actually be just one small part of a much bigger picture. Sometimes, a change of environment can give you the clarity you were looking for.”
According to Delnaaz, one of the biggest reasons travel makes people reassess their lives is because it breaks them out of their routine. “I think it is because travel takes you out of autopilot. At home, we get so caught up in our routines, responsibilities and deadlines that we don’t always stop to ask ourselves whether we are genuinely happy. When you travel, there is a pause. You have time to observe, think and experience things differently. Seeing how other people live can also make you question your own priorities. You may come back and realise that you want to spend more time with your loved ones, slow down, take better care of yourself or simply make more room for things that bring you joy,” she says.
The actress also believes that every meaningful journey leaves an impact. “Yes, definitely. I feel every meaningful trip leaves something behind in you. There have been times when I have gone away feeling stressed or caught up in something and returned with a much lighter perspective. Travel reminds me that life is much bigger than one particular situation. It teaches you to be more present and grateful. Even if your circumstances haven’t changed when you return, your approach towards them can be very different,” Delnaaz shares.
When it comes to vacations, Delnaaz doesn’t believe in following a fixed schedule. “I don’t really follow a fixed number because my work schedule can be quite unpredictable. Whenever I get the opportunity to take a proper break, I try to make the most of it. I particularly love places where I can slow down, enjoy nature, eat good food and spend quality time with people I love. For me, a holiday is less about ticking a destination off a list and more about how the place makes you feel.”
Goa holds a special place in her heart. Sharing what makes the destination her favourite, she says, “Goa is pure peace for me. It is a place where I don’t feel the need to do traditional sightseeing. My perfect day is just waking up, having a quiet breakfast, taking a romantic walk on the beach with Percy, eating a great lunch, and watching a beautiful sundowner. It feels like a second home, and a piece of my heart always stays there.”
While solo travel has become increasingly popular, Delnaaz admits that it isn’t something she sees herself doing. “To be completely honest, I can never travel solo. While I know many people find it empowering, independent travel just isn’t for me because I truly love sharing my journeys and creating memories with the people closest to me.”
Her favourite travel companion is her beau Percy Karkaria, whom she describes as her ultimate support system. “My absolute favourite travel partner is my beau, Percy Karkaria; he is my ultimate support system, and we always make a conscious effort to schedule trips together so we can bond and spend quality time. Beyond Percy, I am happiest travelling with my family and close friends, whether that means taking a special mother-daughter trip to Lonavla, visiting my brother in London, or heading out on a fun group road trip to Pune or Goa with my friends,” she concludes.
