Bollywood actor Huma Qureshi is celebrating her 40th birthday today. Known for her performances across films and digital platforms, she has established a distinct presence in Hindi cinema as well as on OTT through a range of diverse roles.
Before entering films, Huma Qureshi worked in the advertising industry. She appeared in advertisements alongside Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan before making her film debut. Director Anurag Kashyap's Gangs of Wasseypur later helped her gain recognition in the Hindi film industry.
Huma Qureshi was born on 28 July 1986 in New Delhi. She completed her bachelor's degree in History from Gargi College, University of Delhi. During her college years, she developed an interest in acting and began performing in theatre, where she learned the fundamentals of acting and gained confidence before the camera. She later moved to Mumbai to pursue acting as a profession.
Huma Qureshi moved to Mumbai in 2008 at the age of 22 to pursue opportunities in films. During the early phase of her career, she auditioned for several projects. According to reports, she was selected for a film titled Junction, but the project was never made.
Before starting her film career, she built recognition through advertising. She appeared with Aamir Khan in a mobile phone brand advertisement and with Shah Rukh Khan in a paint brand advertisement. Although she has not appeared alongside either actor in a feature film, these advertising projects remain part of her early career.
The turning point in Huma Qureshi's career came with director Anurag Kashyap's Gangs of Wasseypur. During an advertisement shoot, Anurag Kashyap became aware of her work and subsequently cast her in the film. Released in 2012, Gangs of Wasseypur received wide appreciation from audiences and critics. Although her role was relatively limited, her performance attracted attention and helped establish her career in Hindi cinema.
She later appeared in films including Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana, Ek Thi Daayan, D-Day, Jolly LLB 2, Dedh Ishqiya, Badlapur and Kaala. Alongside mainstream films, she also worked on experimental and story-driven projects.
Huma Qureshi also built a b presence in digital entertainment. Her performance in the web series Leila received appreciation, while the political drama Maharani brought her renewed popularity among OTT audiences. In Maharani, she portrayed Rani Bharti, a woman whose journey takes her from an ordinary life to becoming an influential political figure.
Her performance in the role received positive responses from both audiences and critics. The series has released multiple seasons and remains one of her most discussed digital projects.
Huma Qureshi also expanded her career to international cinema with a role in the Hollywood film Army of the Dead. The project introduced her to a global audience and reflected the increasing international participation of Indian actors. From theatre and advertising to Gangs of Wasseypur, followed by films and OTT projects, she has built a career across multiple entertainment platforms.
