Tabu, one of India’s most revered actresses, continues to captivate audiences with her versatility and powerful screen presence. Known for her selective film choices and intense performances, Tabu remains a force to reckon with even in 2025.
Here’s an in-depth look at Tabu’s most iconic roles, her relationships, family background, and what fans can expect from her in the near future:
Tabu’s Top Roles That Cemented Her Legacy in Indian Cinema
1. “Chandni Bar” and the unforgettable portrayal of Mumtaz
Tabu’s 2001 film Chandni Bar remains one of her most acclaimed performances. Her depiction of Mumtaz, a bar dancer struggling to provide a better life for her son, earned her a National Film Award. The raw emotion and layered vulnerability she brought to the role solidified her reputation as a powerhouse performer.
2.“Maqbool”: Tabu’s dark, intense turn in Vishal Bhardwaj’s classic
In Maqbool (2003), Tabu played Nimmi, the Lady Macbeth figure in this Indian adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy. Her chemistry with Irrfan Khan and her portrayal of a morally conflicted woman drew widespread acclaim and showcased her flair for complex characters.
3. “Haider” and “Andhadhun”: Reinventing Herself Across Genres
Tabu’s ability to dominate both serious drama and dark comedy was evident in Haider (2014), where she played a modern-day Gertrude, and Andhadhun (2018), where her unpredictable turn as Simi won her multiple awards. These roles introduced Tabu to a younger audience, cementing her relevance across gengenerations.
4. Recent Success: “Drishyam 2” and “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
In 2022, Drishyam 2 showcased her return as IG Meera Deshmukh, and her performance was a key highlight. In Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Tabu played a double role with remarkable ease, reminding audiences of her unmatched versatility in both thriller and comic genres.
Tabu’s Relationships: A Look Into Her Private World
Tabu has always maintained a fiercely private personal life, which only adds to her mystique. Over the years, she has been linked to several figures in the film industry, including director Sajid Nadiadwala and actor Nagarjuna. However, Tabu has consistently chosen to keep her relationships away from public scrutiny. In interviews, she often credits her focus on career and personal independence as reasons for remaining single.
Despite persistent media speculation, as of 2025, Tabu has neither confirmed any romantic relationships nor expressed any public plans regarding marriage, maintaining the grace and dignity she is known for.
Family Ties: Tabu’s Deep Roots in Indian Cinema
Tabu, born Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, hails from a family deeply connected to Indian cinema. Her elder sister, Farah Naaz, was a popular actress in the 1980s. Tabu is also the niece of iconic actress Shabana Azmi and cinematographer Baba Azmi, giving her a strong artistic lineage. Raised in Hyderabad and Mumbai, Tabu credits her family for supporting her unconventional career choices.
Despite her towering success, she remains close to her family, often seen attending family gatherings and industry events with them.
Tabu’s Upcoming Projects in 2025: A New Era of Excellence
1. “Aur Phir Ek Din” with Vishal Bhardwaj
Tabu is reuniting with director Vishal Bhardwaj for Aur Phir Ek Din, a psychological thriller set against the backdrop of Kashmir. The film is scheduled for a late 2025 release and is already generating buzz for its intriguing premise and stellar cast.
2. Hollywood Foray: “The Killing Fields” Series
In 2025, Tabu is also set to appear in The Killing Fields, an international crime thriller series directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ava DuVernay. This marks one of Tabu’s most significant moves into global entertainment, expanding her already impressive repertoire.
3. “Dilli 6: The Next Chapter” with Abhishek Bachchan
Another highly anticipated project is Dilli 6: The Next Chapter, where Tabu will reportedly play a pivotal role alongside Abhishek Bachchan. The film promises to explore themes of identity, belonging, and generational conflicts in modern India.
Tabu’s career trajectory in 2025 continues to reflect her unmatched ability to adapt and evolve. Whether it’s anchoring a Bollywood blockbuster, starring in a dark indie film, or stepping into the global spotlight, Tabu embodies an ageless, genre-defying charisma. She remains an inspiration for aspiring actors who seek longevity and depth over fleeting fame.
As audiences eagerly await her upcoming projects, one thing is certain: Tabu’s reign is far from over, and her legacy only grows richer with each passing year.