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Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Happy Birthday, Huma Qureshi: From almost starring opposite SRK to leading India's only TIFF 2025 entry, there's more you didn't know
Whether it's portraying the middle-aged home chef in Tarla or the young and mysterious Monica in Monica, O My Darling, Huma Qureshi brings every role to life with power and ease. From Double XL to Leila, she has always chosen bold, different characters, and made them her own. Interestingly, after completing 13 years in cinema, she's not just an actor, she's also a producer. 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?
Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
6 years of Judgementall Hai Kya: Stream these 6 bold and bizarre dark comedies
Released in 2019, Judgementall Hai Kya defied Bollywood conventions with its unpredictable heroine, stylised narrative, and fearless portrayal of mental illness. Even after all this time has passed, it is still considered a groundbreaking and divisive film in Indian cinema. However, it wasn't the only one to be so daring. Still from Judgementall Hai Kya Many filmmakers have dabbled with absurdist storytelling, crime comedies, and psychological thrillers, frequently injecting societal critiques with sardonic humour. You won't find any pat heroes or neat endings in these films. These filmmakers thrive on stories that are brimming with surprises and rooted in moral ambiguity. If you enjoy films about psychological madness and black comedy, then you might enjoy these six Indian flicks Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983) - JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium This legendary Indian film skewers political corruption, real estate scams, and media hypocrisy with humour and absurdity. It is one of the first and sharpest satires in the country's cinematic history. Two incompetent photographers (Naseeruddin Shah and Ravi Baswani) stumble upon a murder and, in the process, must navigate an increasingly shady system. The acclaimed Mahabharata play's climax—a sequence that embodies the film's brilliance at blending humour with truth—and the film's enduring commentary make Kundan Shah's picture a beloved classic. Monica, O My Darling (2022) - Netflix Jayant (Rajkummar Rao), a robotics expert, becomes entangled in a blackmail plan involving a femme fatale (Huma Qureshi), workplace politics, and an increasing corpse count in this sleek neo-noir thriller with a deliciously pulpy tone. Vasan Bala's film features a funk score that heightens the sense of impending anarchy, vintage aesthetics, and dark comedy. It pokes fun at corporate ambition and weak masculinity with its untrustworthy characters and twisted discoveries, keeping the audience wondering. Ishqiya (2010) - Prime Video; JioHotstar, ShemarooMe, Liosnsgate Play via OTTplay Premium As they seek sanctuary in a secluded village, two small-time criminals, one cynical (Naseeruddin Shah) and the other amorous (Arshad Warsi), encounter a widow (Vidya Balan) who is more deadly than she seems in this grim rural noir. The heist plot quickly transforms into an emotional journey filled with desire, deceit, and manipulation. Featuring Vidya Balan in her breakout performance, the film offers a fresh perspective on betrayal and survival through its sensuality, folk music, and incisive dialogues. It is directed by Abhishek Chaubey. Darlings (2022) - Netflix Badru (Alia Bhatt) is the protagonist of this dark comedy set in a Mumbai chawl where the working class lives, and her marriage to her drunken husband (Vijay Varma) has become toxic. As she reaches her breaking point, the film's tone shifts from victimhood to revenge. It deftly combines societal pressure, generational trauma, and spousal abuse into an unexpectedly humorous and inspirational story, with stellar performances from Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah, and Vijay Varma. A satisfying flame of female agency culminates the long simmer. Kaalakaandi (2018) - JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium The black comedy captures the seediness and urban disillusionment of Mumbai as a night of reckoning unravels in various directions. The character, played by Saif Ali Khan, embarks on a drug-fueled existential journey after finding out he has a terminal illness. Meanwhile, in side storylines that are both strange and depressing, opportunists, lovers, and gangsters all meet. The film is directed by Akshat Verma, who also wrote "Delhi Belly." It is philosophical, anarchic, and full of irreverent humour; it doesn't care about following the rules. Judgementall Hai Kya (2019) - ZEE5 via OTTplay Premium A voice-over artist (Kangana Ranaut) who suffers from delusions and has a troubled history gets fixated on the possibility that her tenant (Rajkummar Rao) is a killer. The film explores the topics of gaslighting, mental illness, and identity as reality and imagination become hazy. It stands out from the usual thrillers thanks to Kangana Ranaut's electrifying performance and the bizarre production design. The film is simultaneously unsettling, unexpected, and unforgettable. These films don't merely amuse; they also challenge, perplex, and frequently unnerve. They establish a unique style that is both cinematically daring and psychologically intricate via unconventional comedy, flawed heroes, or a defiance of formula. Here are some great choices to explore the darker and wilder parts of Indian cinema.
News18
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Kusha Kapila Adds A New Feather To Her Cap As A Co-Producer For Vyarth
Last Updated: Vyarth follows the story of Bhumi, an underrated actress grappling with the monotony of conventional roles. Kusha Kapila is donning the hat of a producer in an upcoming short film titled Vyarth, where she will also be playing the lead role. Ahead of the film's poster reveal, the project has been creating significant buzz among fans due to its premise. Vyarth marks a notable shift in Kusha 's career. During an interview with IANS, Kusha opened up about the film and her experience as a co-producer. Talking about the film, Kusha said, 'Vyarth is more than just a film; it's a mirror reflecting the very real struggle against typecasting in our industry, a challenge central to Bhumi's (the film's lead character) journey." Kusha also shared her experience of being a producer as she reflected on her career path. 'As an actor, you dive deep into your character's soul, but as a producer, you have to pull back and look at the entire picture. It is a powerful shift from 'How do I deliver this line?' to 'How do all these elements create impact?' Kusha said while adding, 'This journey from making funny videos in my room to acting in films and now co-producing feels like a natural evolution." Vyarth follows the story of Bhumi, an underrated actress grappling with the monotony of conventional roles. However, things take a turn when her roommate Meenakshi asks for help with an audition that Bhumi was offered, a mother's role that she initially resents. The film delves into the themes of typecasting and creative limitations in the entertainment industry. The film is directed by Pankaj Dayani, who is also the co-producer alongside Kusha. The story is penned by Fahim Irshad, and Romil Modi, popular for his involvement in Laapataa Ladies and All We Imagine As Light, becomes the casting director for Vyarth. Additionally, Swapnil S. Sonawale, known for his work in Monica, O My Darling, handles cinematography in this film. The film is set to release on July 19, on Kusha's YouTube channel. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India Today
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
No shame in being sensual: Huma Qureshi on why special songs deserve a new lens
Bollywood's special songs featuring women, popularly called item numbers, have long been a subject of debate, but Huma Qureshi feels a refreshing shift is underway. In an exclusive conversation with India Today, she reflected on how the portrayal of women in these numbers is no longer just about the male gaze, but about an exclusive chat with India Today, the actor opened up about the changing lens through which special songs are now being viewed. 'Earlier, it was more about the male gaze. It was about the objectification of women in a certain way. And today it's more about celebrating the female form. "And I think therein lies the difference,' she further added, 'There is no shame in a woman being glamorous or beautiful or sensual and expressing that. "But I think that lensing is very important,' she added. Talking about her own choices when it comes to music videos and dance numbers, the 'Monica, O My Darling' actor shared that intent and aesthetics matter deeply to her. 'The choice of people I work with - they're all amazing and really good at what they do. And I think the idea was not to have a song that would go viral. Yes, we want to make a popular song. Yes, we want to make a hit song and a massy song, but it's also classy," she asked Huma to name an iconic song that she would like to re-create, she said, "I would like to recreate 'Chalte Chalte' from 'Pakeezah'. I don't think I'll ever be able to do as good a job as that one, but I would love to do it."Huma was recently seen in the sizzling track 'Dil Thaam Ke' from 'Maalik', which stars Rajkummar Rao.- EndsMust Watch
Time of India
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Huma's a natural — a joy to work with: Choreographer Vijay Ganguly on Huma Qureshi's performance in Dil Thaam Ke
Huma Qureshi in a still from Dil Thaam Ke and (right) Vijay Ganguly After Monica, O My Darling, Huma Qureshi is back in a bold, energetic avatar with Dil Thaam Ke — a high-octane dance number that showcases her flair for performance-driven choreography. Backed by stylised visuals and confident moves, the track has quickly caught the audience's attention. The song marks her second collaboration with choreographer Vijay Ganguly , who says working with her has been effortless and creatively fulfilling. 'Huma is one of the easiest actors to work with. We've done two songs together now, and both turned out well,' he shares. While Monica carried an old-school charm and retro vibe, Dil Thaam Ke leans more into narrative and character expression. 'The energy she brings is evident on screen — her expressions and body language are instinctive,' says Vijay, and adds, 'During Monica, she was a little unsure in rehearsals at first but gave it her all. And when it came to emoting, she hardly needed direction — she just got it.' For Dil Thaam Ke, the team raised the bar with more demanding choreography. 'We decided to make the choreography more challenging. When Huma saw it, she said, 'Let's take this as a challenge and do it'. And she did,' he recalls. One standout moment in the song involves her character approaching Malik with a mix of curiosity and confidence. 'We crafted a scene where she makes the first move — and she played it with just a smile and a glance. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo That small moment added depth,' says Vijay. Whether in grand sequences or subtle moments, Huma brings a screen presence that holds attention. Vijay adds, 'She's a joy to work with, and I hope we collaborate more in the future.' With Dil Thaam Ke, Huma Qureshi combines expression, energy, and screen command — proving once again her ease with performance-led roles.
