Tabu Shares Candid Reflections on Father's Absence and Personal Choices
In a revealing series of interviews, acclaimed Bollywood actor Tabu has opened up about her lifelong decision to never meet her father or use his surname, stating she has "no memories of him" and feels "not curious about him." The actor, now 54, discussed these personal matters alongside her views on remaining unmarried, offering a glimpse into her private life and upbringing.
A Childhood Shaped by Divorce and Strong Women
Tabu's parents divorced when she was just three years old, leading to a childhood spent primarily with her mother and maternal grandparents in Hyderabad. She described her early years as "great" but noted she was a timid child who struggled to find her voice, even after entering the film industry. Her mother worked as a teacher, and Tabu often stayed with her grandmother, who influenced her through prayer and reading.
Coming from a family of strong women, including her elder sister Farah, an actor in the 1980s, and relative Shabana Azmi, Tabu emphasized that she never felt the need to connect with her father. In an interview with Simi Garewal on Rendezvous with Simi Garewal, she explained, "I never really used it, I never thought it was important for me to use my father's surname." Instead, she used Tabassum Fatima, her middle name, with Fatima serving as her surname in school.
No Desire to Meet Father or Change Her Life
Tabu further elaborated on her lack of interest in her father, revealing that while her sister has met him occasionally, she has never felt the urge to do so. "I have no memories of him," she said. "I am not curious about him, I am happy the way I am, the way I have grown up. I am very settled in my own life." Her father remarried after the divorce and has two daughters from his second marriage, but Tabu has maintained her distance throughout.
Embracing Singlehood with Confidence
In a separate 2017 interview with Hindustan Times, Tabu addressed her choice to remain single, a topic she has often discussed publicly. She expressed that being unmarried has never bothered her, stating, "I don't see what the big deal is, being single or being not single." Tabu added that she does not assess people based on marital status or whether they have children, and she prefers not to engage with others who might judge her for it.
Her perspective on relationships aligns with her independent lifestyle, which she has cultivated over the years. Tabu highlighted that she has "never been perturbed" by societal expectations regarding marriage, reinforcing her contentment with her personal and professional life.
Upcoming Projects and Career Focus
On the work front, Tabu continues to be a prominent figure in Indian cinema, with several films in the pipeline. Her upcoming projects include:
- Puri Jagannadh's pan-India film starring Vijay Sethupathi
- Priyadarshan's horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla opposite Akshay Kumar
These films are scheduled for release this year, showcasing her versatility and enduring appeal in the industry. Tabu's candid revelations about her family and personal choices add depth to her public persona, resonating with fans who admire her honesty and strength.
