Tabu Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Tabu, born Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, is one of the most critically acclaimed and versatile actresses in Indian cinema. Known for her powerful performances in both commercial and parallel cinema, Tabu has created a niche for herself with films like Maachis, Chandni Bar, Maqbool, Haider, Drishyam, Andhadhun, and Cheeni Kum. With a career spanning over three decades, she has won multiple National Awards and Filmfare Awards, making her one of India’s finest actresses.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Tabassum Fatima Hashmi (known as Tabu)
- Date of Birth: 4 November 1971
- Birthplace: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Light Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Tabu was born into a Hyderabadi Muslim family.
- Father: Jamal Hashmi
- Mother: Rizwana
- Sister: Farah Naaz (actress)
After her parents separated, she moved to Mumbai with her mother. Tabu grew up in an artistic environment, which shaped her passion for films.
Education Journey
- Completed schooling at St. Ann’s High School, Hyderabad.
- Later moved to Mumbai and studied at St. Xavier’s College, earning a degree in English Literature.
Film Debut & Early Career
- First Screen Appearance: As a child in Bazaar (1982).
- Lead Debut: Coolie No. 1 (Telugu, 1991).
- Bollywood Debut: Pehla Pehla Pyar (1994).
- Breakthrough role came with Vijaypath (1994) opposite Ajay Devgn, which won her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.
Rise to Stardom
Tabu rose to prominence with films that showcased her depth as an actress:
- Maachis (1996) – National Award for Best Actress.
- Virasat (1997) – Powerful role alongside Anil Kapoor.
- Hu Tu Tu (1999) – Intense political drama.
- Chandni Bar (2001) – National Award-winning portrayal of a bar dancer.
Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films
- Maqbool (2003) – Vishal Bhardwaj’s Shakespearean adaptation of Macbeth.
- Cheeni Kum (2007) – Unconventional romance with Amitabh Bachchan.
- Haider (2014) – Played Shahid Kapoor’s mother in a critically acclaimed role.
- Drishyam (2015 & 2022) – Memorable role as a tough cop opposite Ajay Devgn.
- Andhadhun (2018) – Dark thriller that became a global hit.
- Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022) – Praised for her dual performance.
International Work
- The Namesake (2006) – Directed by Mira Nair, received global acclaim.
- Life of Pi (2012) – Played a pivotal role in Ang Lee’s Oscar-winning film.
Awards & Achievements
- National Film Awards: 2 (Best Actress for Maachis & Chandni Bar).
- Filmfare Awards: Multiple wins including Best Actress (Critics).
- Padma Shri (2011): India’s fourth-highest civilian award.
- Widely regarded as one of India’s most versatile actresses.
Personal Life
Tabu has always maintained a private personal life. She has often expressed that her dedication to cinema has kept her focused on her career rather than marriage. She remains close to her sister Farah Naaz and nephews.
Legacy & Influence
Tabu’s legacy lies in her ability to balance art-house cinema and commercial blockbusters. She is admired for breaking stereotypes, taking on unconventional roles, and inspiring young actresses to focus on performance over glamour. Today, she is hailed as a timeless actress who continues to rule Indian cinema.
FAQs
Q1: What is Tabu’s real name?
A: Tabassum Fatima Hashmi.
Q2: How many National Awards has Tabu won?
A: She has won 2 National Awards for Maachis and Chandni Bar.
Q3: Which international films has Tabu worked in?
A: The Namesake (2006) and Life of Pi (2012).
Q4: What are Tabu’s most famous Bollywood movies?
A: Virasat, Chandni Bar, Maqbool, Haider, Drishyam, Andhadhun.
Q5: Has Tabu received any civilian honor?
A: Yes, she was awarded the Padma Shri in 2011.
