Happy Birthday, Huma Qureshi: From almost starring opposite SRK to leading India's only TIFF 2025 entry, there's more you didn't know
Her latest film Bayaan has been selected for the Discovery section at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the only Indian film in that category this year. Huma not only plays the lead but also takes on the role of executive producer. She marked the moment with a heartfelt note on Instagram, celebrating both a personal and professional high.
6 lesser-known facts about Huma Qureshi
Today, as Huma turns 39 and celebrates her big day, here's a look at some lesser-known moments from her powerful journey in films, and a glimpse into the years that shaped her before the spotlight found her.
Her acting journey started in Delhi, not Mumbai
Before entering the world of films, Huma earned her bachelor's degree in history with honors from Gargi College, University of Delhi. It was during her college years that she discovered a passion for acting. She soon became active in Delhi's theater circle, joining several groups that honed her performance skills.
Huma's Ad with Aamir Khan landed her a film deal, here's how
Huma's life took a turn when she landed a two-year contract with Hindustan Unilever in Mumbai. She appeared in ads for Pears, Nerolac, Vita Marie, and Saffola. But it was a Samsung mobile ad, which also featured Aamir Khan, that changed her life. The ad was directed by Anurag Kashyap, who was so impressed by her performance during the shoot that he later cast her in a three-film deal, leading to her act in Gangs of Wasseypur (2012).
She was set to star opposite SRK in Raees, but then this happened
During those ad days, Huma also shared screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in a Nerolac advertisement. Years later, she got a chance to reunite with Khan on the big screen with Rahul Dholakia's Raees. Although she fit the role, the makers eventually replaced her with Mahira Khan, reportedly looking for someone who could bring in 'a certain kind of mannerisms.'
Two big films that never happened
Many believe Gangs of Wasseypur was her debut, but Huma had actually bagged another film first. After moving to Mumbai in 2008, she was selected for a movie titled Junction, which never took off. She was also chosen out of 700 actors for Billa 2 but opted out due to production delays.
She's acted in multiple languages
While Huma is known for her strong presence in Hindi cinema, she has also left her mark in other industries. She's acted in Marathi, Malayalam and Tamil films, appeared in TV shows, and even featured in music albums
Huma turned author with a superhero book
Beyond the screen, Huma has explored her literary side. She authored a book titled Zeba: An Accidental Superhero, marking her entry into the publishing world. The book blends fiction and inspiration, showcasing a different side of the actor that fans might not have expected.
She has explored many roles over the years and continues to take on new challenges in front of and behind the camera. Which of her works have stayed with you the most?
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
an hour ago
- Hindustan Times
Director Vasan Bala thought he'd live a luxe life after Jigra release, but still lives in rented house after it bombed
Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt was last seen in an action-packed avatar in the film Jigra. However, the movie failed to strike a chord with audiences and underperformed at the box office. Now, in a conversation with Cyrus Broacha, the film's director, Vasan Bala, opened up about how the film's failure affected him. Vasan Bala says Jigra's box office failure knocked him out. Vasan Bala on Jigra box office failure Vasan revealed that although he enjoyed working with Alia, the film's box office numbers were a tough blow. He said, 'The Jigra box office was a sucker punch. It really knocks you out, and I'm still waking up. But (new) scripts are also happening in the recovery process. I am happy with the film, absolutely. I had a great time working with the crew, and I had a great time working with Alia. She's an incredible actress, she has an incredible work ethic and vision. She spoils you.' Vasan also reflected on how the most successful people in the industry are people who 'shoot 200 days and are still indecisive'. When asked if he could do that now, he responded, 'No, I can't after Jigra's box office. I can't. I thought I could, I was gearing up for that. You appreciate success more this way—when you don't have it. But not as much when you're trying to buy houses. The extra money doesn't hurt. I still live in a rented house. After Jigra, I went back to a Mani Ratnam set, though. I went for two days, just to be around a film set, because I thought I'd never go back.' About Jigra Co-produced by Alia Bhatt's Eternal Sunshine Productions and Dharma Productions, Jigra is directed by Vasan Bala, known for Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota and Monica, O My Darling. The emotional action-drama explores themes of courage and sibling love. Alia plays a fiercely protective sister, with Vedang Raina portraying her brother. The narrative follows the lengths she goes to in order to safeguard him. While Alia's performance was widely appreciated, the film received mixed reviews and ultimately failed at the box office. Made on a reported budget of ₹80 crore, it ended its theatrical run with ₹56.93 crore worldwide. Meanwhile, Alia is currently gearing up for the release of her upcoming spy action thriller Alpha. Directed by Shiv Rawail, the film is part of YRF's expanding spy universe and also stars Sharvari in a lead role. Alpha is scheduled for release in cinemas on 25 December 2025.
Indian Express
an hour ago
- Indian Express
Nishaanchi first look out: Bal Thackeray's grandson Aaishvary Thackeray debuts in Anurag Kashyap's crime drama; fans say, ‘Gangs Of Wasseypur vibes'
Bal Thackeray's grandson Aaishvary Thackeray is all set to make his acting debut with director Anurag Kashyap's upcoming film Nishaanchi. The crime drama's first look was revealed by the makers on Thursday. It is set to hit theatres on September 19. While sharing Nishaanchi's first look, the makers wrote on Instagram, 'Poster chapwa diye hai, ab lagne waale hai. #Nishaanchi coming to theatres near you on September 19.' The first-look poster of the gangster drama gives off serious '80s action-thriller vibes. Based on the poster, Aaishvary appears to be playing a dual role in the film. He will be sharing screen space with Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Kumud Mishra. The vibrant, quirky poster of Nishaanchi prompted fans to draw comparisons to Anurag Kashyap's earlier films, such as Gangs of Wasseypur, Gulaal, and Mukkebaaz. A fan wrote in the comments section, 'Poster ka png bhej do, hum tattoo karwa rahe hai.' Another user commented, 'Hit hai.' 'Gangs Of Wasseypur vibes,' a comment read. ALSO READ | 'Divorce with Anurag Kashyap was bitter initially, hurtful to see him with someone else': Kalki Koechlin recalls how parents' hated each other after 'nasty' split A post shared by Amazon MGM Studios India (@amazonmgmstudiosin) Talking about Nishaanchi, Anurag Kashyap said in a statement, 'We wrote Nishaanchi in 2016. Since then, I have been looking to make this film the way it should be, and was looking for a studio who trusted me to do that, whole heartedly. Amazon MGM loved it, believed in it, and became the wall behind us. This is exactly what happened with all my films that people love – they were backed by great producers and great Studios. Nishaanchi is a story full of raw human emotions, love, lust, power, crime and punishment, betrayal, redemption and the consequences of it all.' According to the makers, Nishaanchi 'follows the tale of two brothers—mirror images of each other, yet worlds apart, whose choices shape their destinies.' Produced by Ajay Rai and Ranjan Singh under Jar Pictures, in collaboration with Flip Films, the movie is co-written by Prasoon Mishra, Ranjan Chandel, and Kashyap.
India Today
3 hours ago
- India Today
Nishaanchi first look: Aaishvary Thackeray debuts in Anurag Kashyap's crime saga
Actor Aaishvary Thackeray is all set for his debut with director Anurag Kashyap's 'Nishaanchi'. The first poster of the film unveiled by Amazon MGM Studios teases the quintessential Quentin Tarantino-themed gangster-drama with a blend of quintessential 80s Bollywood had announced the film in June 2025. The quirky, colourful first look of 'Nishaanchi' depicts raw, grassroots narrative, seen earlier in films such as 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Gulaal', 'Mukkebaaz', etc. The viewers get an impression of realism along with mainstream cinematic flair. The adrenaline-fuelled gritty crime-drama promises to be a true-blue masala entertainer based on the underworld. The upcoming action-packed movie follows the tale of two brothers—mirror images of each other, yet worlds apart, whose choices shape their destinies. Amazon MGM Studios unveiled the first look poster of 'Nishaanchi'. (Credit: Instagram/Amazon MGM Studios) advertisementAt its core, 'Nishaanchi' is about debutant Aaishvary in a compelling double role— as twin brothers leading starkly different lives, caught in a storm that's ready to erupt. The unique retro-style poster is also metaphorical of a multi-layered, unapologetically dramatic scenario where love, revenge, and destiny collide. The film also features a powerful ensemble cast including Vedika Pinto, Monika Panwar, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Kumud Mishra, in pivotal roles. Opening up about the project, Anurag Kashyap said in a statement, 'We wrote 'Nishaanchi' in 2016. Since then, I have been looking to make this film the way it should be, and was looking for a studio who trusted me to do that, whole heartedly. Amazon MGM loved it, believed in it, and became the wall behind us. This is exactly what happened with all my films that people love - they were backed by great producers and great Studios. 'Nishaanchi' is a story full of raw human emotions, love, lust, power, crime and punishment, betrayal, redemption and the consequences of it all."This gritty, emotionally charged saga is produced by Ajay Rai and Ranjan Singh under the banner of Jar Pictures, in association with Flip Films, and is written by Prasoon Mishra, Ranjan Chandel, and Anurag Kashyap.'Nishaanchi' is set to release in theatres in India on September 19, 2025.- Ends
