There are very few actresses in Indian cinema who have had as versatile and enduring a career as Tabu. At 53, she continues to charm audiences with her powerful screen presence, working across Bollywood, South Indian cinema, and now Hollywood. But what still surprises many fans is the fact that this incredibly talented actress once portrayed a mother, wife, and girlfriend — all to the same actor on screen!
30+ Years, Countless Roles, Still Unmatched
Tabu, whose real name is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, has been ruling the entertainment world for over three decades. From Hindi to Tamil and Telugu films, she has carved her niche with critically acclaimed performances and blockbusters alike. And despite the glamour and rumors, Tabu remains single and fiercely private about her personal life.
Tabu and Nandamuri Balakrishna: An Unusual On-screen Journey
One of the most fascinating highlights of Tabu’s career is her association with South Indian superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna — also known as Balayya. In a rare cinematic feat, Tabu played his mother, wife, and girlfriend in different films!
In the 2002 Telugu action drama ‘Chennakesava Reddy’, Tabu played both wife and mother to Balakrishna, who portrayed dual roles of father and son. Later, in the devotional biopic ‘Pandurangadu’ (2008), she appeared as Balakrishna’s on-screen girlfriend.
These roles showcased her exceptional range and also made headlines due to the unusual casting — playing such emotionally contrasting characters with the same co-star.
From Child Artist to Global Star
Tabu’s acting journey began at the tender age of 11 with the 1982 film ‘Bazaar’, where she appeared as a child actor following the footsteps of her elder sister, Farah Naaz. By 14, she had acted in another film, and soon made her leading debut in Telugu cinema with ‘Coolie No. 1’ opposite Venkatesh.
Her entry into Bollywood came with ‘Prem’ opposite Sanjay Kapoor, but due to delays in release, her first theatrical appearance as a lead was actually in ‘Pehla Pehla Pyar’ (1994). The same year, she starred in ‘Vijaypath’ with Ajay Devgn, and there was no looking back.
Hollywood Calling: Tabu in ‘Dune’
Even today, Tabu continues to reinvent herself. Her recent work in Hollywood’s sci-fi epic ‘Dune’ has gained international praise, proving her talent transcends language and geography.
Still Single, Still Iconic
Despite her fame, Tabu has remained fiercely private and unmarried. Her choice to stay single has often sparked media curiosity, but the actress continues to focus on her craft, letting her work speak volumes.
Conclusion
From being a child artist to playing the most layered characters in Indian cinema, Tabu’s journey is nothing short of iconic. Whether she’s playing a lover, a mother, or a queen, she brings grace and intensity to every role — and her legacy only continues to grow.
