When Tabu shared how Dev Anand shortened her name from Tabassum; revealed why she never used her father’s surname ‘Hashmi’ |

Many Indian actresses, like Zeenat Aman and Shabana Azmi, have challenged stereotypes through bold, empowering roles, inspiring generations with their strong on-screen portrayals.
Tabu: An Icon of Unconventional Cinema
One such actress is Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, better known as Tabu, who is known for her bold and unconventional roles in Hindi cinema. From a bar dancer in Chandni Bar to a suicide bomber in Maachis, she has consistently taken on unique characters and built a distinct place for herself.
Choosing Her Own Identity
Tabu was raised by her grandparents after her parents separated when she was very young. She has never used her father’s surname, choosing instead to go by Tabassum Fatima, with “Fatima” even serving as her surname during her school years. In a past interview with Simi Garewal on Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, Tabu shared that she has no memories of her father, has never felt the urge to meet him, and feels content with the way she was brought up.
How Dev Anand Gave Tabu Her Name
In the 1985 film Hum Naujawan, Tabu played the character ‘Priya’ and was credited as ‘Tabbu.’ Originally named Tabassum, she was given the name ‘Tabu’ by Dev Anand, who noticed her at a birthday party and later cast her as his daughter in the film. The movie also featured Anupam Kher in a prominent role.
A Journey From Child Actor to Cinematic Great
Tabu is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished actresses in both mainstream and independent cinema. She started her journey with a brief, uncredited role in Bazaar at the age of 11 and later appeared as Dev Anand’s daughter in Hum Naujawan at 14. Her breakthrough came with Vijaypath in 1994, setting the stage for a successful and enduring career.
Tabu’s influence extends beyond Hindi cinema, as she has also captivated audiences with her remarkable performances in regional films such as Ninne Pelladata, Kaalapani, Kadhal Desam, Iruvar, and many more. Renowned for her choice of unconventional and bold roles, she has delivered numerous commercially successful films, including Prem, Haqeeqat, Himmat, Jeet, Maqbool, The Namesake, Cheeni Kum, Haider, and others. The versatile actress has earned critical acclaim and has won the National Film Award twice, for her performances in Maachis and Chandni Bar.