Tabu
Tabu Actress Age, Movies, Husband, Biography, Sister
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Tabu Biography
Tabu, whose full name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, is an acclaimed Indian actress known for her versatile performances in Bollywood, as well as regional cinema. Born on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, India, she has carved a unique space for herself in the Indian film industry with her powerful portrayals in critically acclaimed films.
Physical Stats
Tabu is known for her tall and graceful stature, which complements her commanding screen presence. Her physical attributes include:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Around 65 kg (143 lbs)
- Eye Color: Light brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Figure Measurements: 34-28-37 inches
Her tall frame, expressive eyes, and elegant persona have made her one of the most striking actresses in the Indian film industry.
Early Life and Family
Tabu was born into a Hyderabadi Muslim family with a strong educational and literary background. Her mother, Rizwana, was a school teacher, while her father, Jamal Hashmi, was an actor. However, her parents separated when she was quite young, and she was primarily raised by her mother and grandparents. Tabu’s elder sister, Farah Naaz, was also an actress in Bollywood during the 1980s and early 1990s.
From an early age, Tabu exhibited a keen interest in academics and the arts. Unlike many of her contemporaries, she did not have a typical Bollywood star background but was raised with an emphasis on education and discipline.
Education
Tabu completed her schooling at St. Ann’s High School in Hyderabad, which is one of the most prestigious schools in the city. After her school years, she moved to Mumbai for higher studies and enrolled at St. Xavier’s College, where she pursued a degree in Electronics. However, her interest in films and the opportunities that came her way gradually led her towards acting.
While studying, she got small opportunities in the entertainment industry, and her journey in films began at a very young age. Despite her academic inclination, her passion for performing arts eventually took center stage, leading her to become one of India’s most respected actresses.
Entry into Films
Tabu made her first screen appearance in the film Bazaar (1982) as a child artist. She later had a small role in Hum Naujawan (1985) alongside Dev Anand. However, her breakthrough came in the 1990s when she was cast in Pehla Pehla Pyar (1994) and Vijaypath (1994) opposite Ajay Devgn, for which she won her first Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.
Over the years, she has acted in a variety of roles, from commercial entertainers like Biwi No.1 and Hera Pheri to intense dramas such as Maachis, Chandni Bar, Maqbool, and Haider.
Tabu, whose full name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, is an acclaimed Indian actress known for her versatile performances in Bollywood, as well as regional cinema. Born on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, India, she has carved a unique space for herself in the Indian film industry with her powerful portrayals in critically acclaimed films.
Tabu, whose full name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, is a celebrated Indian actress known for her powerful performances in Bollywood, as well as regional films. With a career spanning over three decades, she has established herself as one of the most versatile and respected actresses in the Indian film industry.
Age
Tabu was born on November 4, 1971, which makes her 53 years old as of 2025. Despite being in the industry for so long, she continues to take on challenging roles and remains one of the most sought-after actresses in Indian cinema.
Caste and Religion
Tabu belongs to a Hyderabadi Muslim family. She follows Islam as her religion and has often spoken about her upbringing in a conservative but progressive household. However, she is known for being extremely private about her personal beliefs and religious practices.
Sun Sign (Zodiac Sign)
Tabu was born on November 4, which makes her a Scorpio. Scorpios are known for their intensity, passion, and depth, traits that resonate strongly with Tabu’s personality and acting style. Her ability to take on complex roles and portray emotions with great depth aligns with the typical characteristics of her zodiac sign.
Hometown and Birthplace
Tabu was born in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, which is also considered her hometown. Hyderabad, known for its rich history and culture, played a crucial role in shaping her early life and values. She later moved to Mumbai, Maharashtra, to pursue her higher education and acting career. However, she still maintains a deep connection with Hyderabad and often visits the city.
Hobbies
Despite her busy schedule, Tabu has a variety of hobbies and interests that reflect her personality. Some of her favorite pastimes include:
- Reading – She is an avid reader and enjoys exploring different genres, from literature to philosophy. Her love for books is evident in the way she carries herself and the kind of intellectual conversations she engages in.
- Traveling – Tabu enjoys traveling to different parts of the world. She often takes breaks from her work schedule to explore new cultures, destinations, and cuisines.
- Music – She has a deep appreciation for music and enjoys listening to classical and soulful melodies. Music helps her relax and unwind after long shoots.
- Fitness and Yoga – Even though she has never been obsessed with fitness trends, she practices yoga and follows a balanced lifestyle to stay healthy and maintain her graceful appearance.
- Cooking – Tabu is known to have an interest in cooking. Though she prefers eating healthy, she occasionally indulges in home-cooked Hyderabadi dishes.
Tabu, whose full name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, is one of India’s most accomplished and versatile actresses. Despite being a part of the film industry for over three decades, she has managed to keep her personal life relatively private. She comes from a well-educated and culturally rich background, and her family has played a significant role in shaping her personality and career.
Mother and Father
Tabu was born into a Hyderabadi Muslim family on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. Her mother, Rizwana Hashmi, was a school teacher, and she played a crucial role in raising Tabu and her sister. Rizwana instilled strong values of education and discipline in her daughters, which helped them navigate both life and the entertainment industry.
Her father, Jamal Hashmi, was an actor, but he was largely absent from Tabu’s life. Her parents separated when she was very young, and she was primarily raised by her mother and maternal grandparents. Tabu has rarely spoken about her father, indicating that he did not have a major influence on her upbringing.
Siblings
Tabu has an elder sister, Farah Naaz, who was also a well-known Bollywood actress in the 1980s and early 1990s. Farah made a name for herself with films like Naseeb Apna Apna, Yateem, and Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri. While Farah had a shorter career in Bollywood, she was quite popular during her time.
Despite both sisters being in the film industry, they have led different career paths. Farah was more inclined towards commercial cinema, whereas Tabu built her reputation as a serious actress, taking on critically acclaimed and unconventional roles. The two sisters share a close bond, and Tabu has often credited her family, including Farah, for being her support system.
Marriage and Relationships
Tabu has remained unmarried, which is a topic of much curiosity among her fans. Over the years, there have been speculations and rumors about her romantic relationships, but she has never confirmed any of them publicly.
One of the most talked-about rumors was her alleged relationship with filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala. There were also reports of her being involved with actor Nagarjuna, who was already married. However, Tabu has never openly discussed her relationships, choosing to maintain a dignified silence on her personal affairs.
In interviews, Tabu has often joked about her single status, saying that actor Ajay Devgn was responsible for keeping her unmarried, as he used to be very protective of her during their early years in the industry. However, she has also stated that she is content with her life and does not feel the need to conform to societal expectations regarding marriage.
Children
Since Tabu has never been married, she does not have any children. She has always been deeply focused on her career and personal growth rather than settling down in a conventional family setup.
Tabu: A Legendary Career in Indian Cinema
Tabu, born Tabassum Fatima Hashmi on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, India, is one of the most versatile and accomplished actresses in Indian cinema. Known for her ability to seamlessly transition between commercial and critically acclaimed films, she has created a niche for herself in Bollywood as well as regional cinema. Over her three-decade-long career, she has delivered several outstanding performances that have won her numerous accolades and a loyal fan following.
Career Overview
Tabu began her acting journey at a young age. Her first appearance on screen was as a child artist in the 1982 film Bazaar, followed by Hum Naujawan (1985), where she played Dev Anand’s daughter. However, her debut as a lead actress came in 1994 with the film Pehla Pehla Pyar. The same year, she gained recognition for her role in Vijaypath, opposite Ajay Devgn, which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.
In the following years, Tabu chose a mix of commercial entertainers and offbeat films. She proved her mettle in critically acclaimed movies such as Maachis (1996), Chandni Bar (2001), Maqbool (2003), and The Namesake (2006). She also balanced her career with successful mainstream films like Biwi No.1 (1999), Hera Pheri (2000), and Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999).
Even in the 2010s and beyond, Tabu remained relevant with her remarkable performances in films like Haider (2014), Andhadhun (2018), Drishyam (2015 and 2022), and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022).
Popular Movies
Critically Acclaimed Films
- Maachis (1996) – Tabu won her first National Award for Best Actress for this film, which was based on terrorism in Punjab.
- Chandni Bar (2001) – A landmark performance as a bar dancer, earning her another National Award for Best Actress.
- Maqbool (2003) – A Bollywood adaptation of Macbeth, where she played Nimmi, the Lady Macbeth character.
- The Namesake (2006) – A deeply emotional film directed by Mira Nair, where Tabu played a Bengali mother navigating life in the United States.
- Haider (2014) – A modern-day Hamlet, where she portrayed a complex mother figure in Vishal Bhardwaj’s adaptation.
- Andhadhun (2018) – A dark comedy-thriller where Tabu’s role was widely appreciated for its unpredictability.
Commercial Hits
- Vijaypath (1994) – An action-packed film with Ajay Devgn that brought her initial fame.
- Saajan Chale Sasural (1996) – A comedy film opposite Govinda.
- Biwi No.1 (1999) – A box office hit with Salman Khan and Karisma Kapoor.
- Hera Pheri (2000) – A cult comedy in which she had a memorable role.
- Drishyam (2015 & 2022) – A crime thriller where she played a tough cop, receiving immense praise.
- Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022) – A major commercial success where she played a double role.
Popular Songs Featuring Tabu
Tabu has been featured in several hit Bollywood songs, many of which remain popular even today. Some of her most memorable songs include:
- “Ruk Ruk Ruk” (Vijaypath, 1994) – A peppy and fun number that is still a favorite among Bollywood music lovers.
- “Dil Dhak Dhak Karne Laga” (Jungle, 2000) – A romantic track with Urmila Matondkar and Fardeen Khan.
- “Chori Chori” (Saajan Chale Sasural, 1996) – A lighthearted song featuring her and Govinda.
- “Kitne Armaan” (Jeet, 1996) – A melodious song that was well-received.
- “Raah Mein Unse Mulaqat Ho Gayi” (Vijaypath, 1994) – A romantic track that became an instant hit.
- “Aye Nazneen Suno Na” (Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar!!, 2000) – A soulful and underrated song.
Awards and Achievements
Tabu’s contribution to cinema has been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Some of the most significant ones include:
National Film Awards
- Best Actress – Maachis (1996)
- Best Actress – Chandni Bar (2001)
Filmfare Awards
- Best Female Debut – Vijaypath (1994)
- Best Actress (Critics) – Virasat (1997)
- Best Actress (Critics) – Hu Tu Tu (1999)
- Best Actress (Critics) – Astitva (2000)
- Best Supporting Actress – Haider (2014)
Other Honors
- Padma Shri (2011) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award for her contribution to cinema.
- Screen Awards, IIFA Awards, and Zee Cine Awards – Multiple wins for her outstanding performances.
Salary and Net Worth
Salary Per Film
Tabu has always been selective about her projects, and her earnings per film vary based on the role and production house. As of 2025, she reportedly charges between ₹3-5 crore per film. For special appearances or supporting roles, her fee is slightly lower.
Net Worth
Tabu’s estimated net worth is ₹50-60 crore ($7-8 million). Her wealth comes from her film earnings, brand endorsements, and investments in real estate.
Brand Endorsements
Although she is not as active in advertisements as some other Bollywood celebrities, Tabu has endorsed a few luxury and lifestyle brands over the years, further adding to her income.
Properties and Assets
- Tabu owns a luxurious house in Mumbai, where she resides.
- She has properties in Hyderabad, her hometown.
- She has a collection of high-end cars, including a luxury SUV.
Conclusion
Tabu is one of the finest actresses Indian cinema has ever produced. With her exceptional acting skills, she has managed to balance mainstream commercial films with intense, performance-driven roles. From her early days as a newcomer in the 1990s to her continued success in the 2020s, she has maintained her status as a powerhouse performer.
Despite being one of the most respected actresses, she has always maintained a low profile, staying away from controversies and choosing films that challenge her as an artist. With a career that spans over three decades and multiple accolades to her name, Tabu remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and a beloved icon for cinema lovers.
Her upcoming projects are highly anticipated, and fans eagerly wait to see more of her compelling performances. Whether in Bollywood, regional cinema, or even international films, Tabu continues to redefine the meaning of stardom with her immense talent and dedication.
Tabu’s Favorite Things and People
Favorite Food:
- Hyderabadi Biryani
- South Indian Cuisine
- Home-cooked Meals
Favorite Actors:
- Amitabh Bachchan
- Irrfan Khan
- Ajay Devgn
Favorite Actresses:
- Madhuri Dixit
- Shabana Azmi
- Smita Patil
Favorite Directors:
- Vishal Bhardwaj
- Gulzar
- Mira Nair
Favorite Movies:
- Maqbool
- The Namesake
- Chandni Bar
Favorite Books:
- The Alchemist – Paulo Coelho
- Works of Gulzar
- Classic Literature
Favorite Travel Destinations:
- Europe
- Maldives
- New York
Favorite Hobbies:
- Reading
- Traveling
- Listening to Music
- Yoga
Favorite Music Genre:
- Classical Music
- Sufi Music
- Soft Bollywood Songs
Favorite Colors:
- White
- Black
- Blue
Favorite Perfume Brands:
- Chanel
- Dior
Favorite Sports:
- Cricket
- Tennis
Favorite Pet:
- Cats
Tabu is known for her sophisticated and intellectual taste, and she enjoys a balanced mix of traditional and contemporary influences in her lifestyle.
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FAQs
Here are 25 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Indian actress Tabu:
General Questions
- What is Tabu’s real name?
- Tabu’s real name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi.
- When and where was Tabu born?
- She was born on November 4, 1971, in Hyderabad, India.
- What is Tabu’s age?
- As of 2025, Tabu is 53 years old.
- What is Tabu known for?
- Tabu is known for her versatile performances in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam cinema.
- What is Tabu’s height?
- She is 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall.
- Who are Tabu’s family members?
- Her mother is Rizwana, and her elder sister is Farah Naaz, who was also an actress.
- Is Tabu married?
- No, Tabu has never been married.
Career-Related Questions
- What was Tabu’s debut film?
- She made her debut as a child artist in Bazaar (1982) and had her first leading role in Pehla Pehla Pyar (1994).
- Which are Tabu’s most famous films?
- Some of her notable films include Maqbool (2004), Chandni Bar (2001), Haider (2014), Andhadhun (2018), Drishyam (2015 & 2022), and The Namesake (2006).
- Has Tabu worked in Hollywood?
- Yes, she starred in The Namesake (2006) and Life of Pi (2012).
- Which awards has Tabu won?
- She has won two National Film Awards for Maachis (1996) and Chandni Bar (2001), along with multiple Filmfare Awards.
- Has Tabu worked in regional films?
- Yes, she has worked in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Bengali, and Marathi films.
- Which are Tabu’s best performances in Telugu cinema?
- Her best Telugu films include Ninne Pelladatha (1996), Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000), and Andarivaadu (2005).
- What kind of roles does Tabu prefer?
- Tabu is known for choosing strong, unconventional, and author-backed roles.
- Which directors has Tabu frequently collaborated with?
- She has worked multiple times with directors like Vishal Bhardwaj, Gulzar, and Madhur Bhandarkar.
- Did Tabu appear in a Salman Khan movie?
- Yes, she appeared in Jai Ho (2014) and Bharat (2019) with Salman Khan.
Personal & Fun Facts
- Does Tabu have social media accounts?
- Yes, she is active on Instagram (@tabutiful).
- What are Tabu’s hobbies?
- She loves reading, traveling, and yoga.
- Is Tabu related to Shabana Azmi?
- Yes, Shabana Azmi is Tabu’s aunt.
- Why is Tabu known for being private?
- She prefers to keep her personal life away from the media and rarely discusses it in interviews.
- Which are Tabu’s favorite books?
- She enjoys reading fiction and philosophical books, including works by Paulo Coelho.
- Has Tabu done item songs?
- She is known for Kajra Re (Bunty Aur Babli, 2005) and Rukh Rukh Rukh (Vijaypath, 1994).
- What is Tabu’s fitness secret?
- She follows yoga, meditation, and a healthy diet to stay fit.
- Does Tabu have a close bond with Ajay Devgn?
- Yes, she has known Ajay Devgn since childhood and has acted in many films with him.
- What is Tabu working on next?
- As of 2025, she has upcoming projects like Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha and Kartik Aaryan’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
