Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi, renowned for her dynamic performances in films like Badlapur, Double XL, and Monica O My Darling, has made a notable entry into the literary world. This week, Huma Qureshi launched her debut novel, Zeba: An Accidental Superhero, at the prestigious Sharjah International Book Fair 2024.
A Bold New Chapter for Huma Qureshi
Huma Qureshi’s foray into writing marks an exciting chapter in her career. Qureshi introduces audiences to her creative prowess through the pages of Zeba, a story that blends wit, empowerment. Speaking at the book launch, Qureshi shared her inspiration behind crafting the quirky, imperfect superhero. She described Zeba as a sassy, flawed, and relatable character.
The Origins of ‘Zeba’
The idea for the novel emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown, a time when many sought new creative pursuits. “I’m a person who likes to keep working all the time,” Qureshi said. “When COVID happened, I suddenly had time to reflect, and that’s when Zeba was born.”
Breaking Stereotypes with ‘Zeba’
At its core, Zeba: An Accidental Superhero is a narrative of self-discovery and empowerment that challenges stereotypes, particularly those faced by Muslim women. Qureshi emphasized, “Growing up, we often think that by our 30s, we’ll have everything figured out, but life proves otherwise. As a Muslim woman, the expectations are even more complex. Zeba represents the contradictions we all carry, and I wanted to bring that representation to life.”
Choosing the Written Word
While initially contemplating a film or series for her superhero concept, Huma Qureshi ultimately decided on a book to bring her story to life. “I wanted to create something modern and meaningful that could bridge the gap between the Muslims and popular culture,” she said. The project, which spanned two years, saw Qureshi infusing her personal insights and experiences into the character of Zeba.
Huma Qureshi’s Impact at the Sharjah Book Fair
Moreover, the launch at the Sharjah International Book Fair has solidified Huma Qureshi’s status not just as an actress but as an author with a vision. Her engagement at the event sparked conversations about representation, diversity, and the power of storytelling, underscoring her influence beyond the big screen.
