ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A-list actor Saba Qamar Zaman recently revealed that she declined a film offer alongside Bollywood star Deepika Padukone due to what she described as her own “stupidity.” In an interview with a digital magazine, Saba disclosed that she had turned down several Bollywood offers before eventually making her debut in the acclaimed film ‘Hindi Medium’ alongside Irrfan Khan.
Among the notable films she rejected were ‘Love Aaj Kal’, ‘Delhi 6’, and ‘Cocktail’. Saba mentioned auditioning for ‘Delhi 6’ but her decision was influenced by her mother’s disapproval. Reflecting on ‘Love Aaj Kal’, she expressed regret, admitting that she declined the role after realizing she would be overshadowed by Deepika Padukone’s lead character.
In her own words, Saba recalled telling Imtiaz Ali’s assistant, “There is Deepika Padukone in the film, so I would be the second lead character and no one would even notice me, so I’m not doing this character.” She later watched the film with friends after its release and acknowledged her mistake, realizing she missed a significant opportunity.
Saba Qamar eventually gained recognition in Bollywood through ‘Hindi Medium’ in 2017, where her portrayal of Meeta Batra earned critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Actress at the Filmfare Awards. Her journey reflects both the challenges and opportunities in the film industry, marked by pivotal decisions and career-defining roles.
