Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui, widely known as Zara Noor Abbas, is a popular Pakistani actress recognized for her impressive roles in television and film. She has captured the hearts of many with her acting skills and charming presence on screen. From her early career in television dramas to making a mark in the film industry, Zara has become one of the leading actresses in Pakistan.
Early Life and Family Background
Zara Noor Abbas was born on March 13, 1991, in Lahore, Punjab, into a family deeply connected with the entertainment industry. She is the daughter of the well-known actress Asma Abbas and the niece of legendary actresses Bushra Ansari and Sumbul Shahid. With such a strong family heritage in the arts, Zara’s passion for acting was nurtured from an early age. She grew up in a Punjabi household and was greatly influenced by her mother and aunts, who were well-established names in the television and film industry.
Zara studied at Beaconhouse National University, where she pursued film design, dancing, theatre, and filmmaking. Her interest in the performing arts led her to participate in various plays and competitions, which eventually shaped her path towards acting.
Acting Career
Television Debut and Early Roles
Zara Noor Abbas made her television debut in 2016 with the drama series Dharkan, where she played the role of Areen. Directed by Fahim Burney, the series ran for 18 episodes and received mixed reviews. Despite this, Zara’s performance as the lead actress was noticed, and it set the foundation for her future roles in the entertainment industry.
Breakthrough Role in Khamoshi
In 2017, Zara landed a lead role in the drama series Khamoshi, where she portrayed Arsala. This critically acclaimed drama, produced by Momina Duraid, was a major success and became one of the highest-rated television dramas of that year. Zara’s performance earned her widespread recognition, and her on-screen chemistry with co-actor Bilal Khan was praised. The role of Arsala established Zara as a leading actress in the industry, and her popularity soared.
Other Notable Television Roles
Zara continued to impress with her acting abilities in subsequent television dramas. In 2018, she appeared in two series, Lamhay and Qaid. In Lamhay, she played the role of a reincarnated lover alongside actor Shaz Khan. Though the series did not achieve high ratings, Zara’s performance was well-received. Her second drama of the year, Qaid, saw her portraying the character of Reham, a home tutor who faces personal challenges when a student becomes infatuated with her.
In 2019, Zara played an extended cameo role in the historical drama Deewar-e-Shab as Feroza Jahan and also appeared as Rani in the military-themed drama Ehd-e-Wafa, which was produced by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Her performances in these roles were lauded, and her popularity continued to rise.
In 2022, Zara played the title role in the drama Badshah Begum, where she portrayed a powerful and influential character. She also starred in the 2023 drama Jhoom, in which she played the role of a talented and calm doctor, adding another successful project to her career.
Film Career
Film Debut and Success
In 2019, Zara made her film debut with Wajahat Rauf’s comedy-drama Chhalawa. She starred alongside well-known actors like Mehwish Hayat and Azfar Rehman. Her performance in the film, where she was paired with her real-life husband Asad Siddiqui, was appreciated by both audiences and critics.
That same year, Zara appeared in Asim Raza’s romantic film Parey Hut Luv, which also starred popular actors such as Maya Ali, Mahira Khan, and Sheheryar Munawar. Both Chhalawa and Parey Hut Luv performed well at the box office, further solidifying Zara’s position as a rising star in the Pakistani film industry.
Upcoming Projects
Zara Noor Abbas is set to appear in Karachi Se Lahore 3, the third installment in the popular Karachi Lahore film series directed by Wajahat Rauf. Fans are eagerly waiting for her next performance in this highly anticipated film.
Personal Life
In 2017, Zara Noor Abbas married fellow actor Asad Siddiqui, the nephew of veteran actor Adnan Siddiqui. Their wedding was a grand affair, held in Karachi, and attended by many celebrities. Zara and Asad first met on the set of the drama Kis Ki Ayegi Baraat, and they later worked together in the feature film Chhalawa and the television series Zebaish. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, into the world, adding joy to their family life.
Off-Screen Work and Advocacy
Outside of acting, Zara is known for her active involvement in raising awareness on social issues. She has been vocal about body shaming in the media industry and frequently speaks out against the unrealistic beauty standards imposed on women. Zara has used her platform to empower women and encourage body positivity.
In June 2018, Zara delivered a powerful TED Talk at Government College University in Lahore, where she spoke on the topic of “The Power of a Single Decision.” Her speech was inspiring and well-received by the audience. Zara has also participated in fashion shows and appeared for FnkAsia at Fashion Pakistan Week.
In 2019, Zara joined hands with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to support refugees in Pakistan and across the globe. Her involvement in humanitarian work has made her a role model for many, both on and off the screen.
