Style icon Tooba Siddiqui is in it to win it! She started as a model and swiftly soared into films and television. A hardworking mother, actress and model, she is the one to look out for. In an insightful conversation, Tooba shares her tale.
Tell us about yourself.
I am honest, confident and ambitious. I used to be ambitious at one point but now I want to do different things in life. I love to travel, meet new people, converse and have food.
What made you want to become an actor? Did you have your family’s support?
I guess it goes back to when I was six or eight years old. I used to watch movies with my family, be it Indian or Hollywood films. I had seen every kind of movie but what did it for me was the Godfather trilogy and Michael Corleone. Al Pacino changed my life (laughs). I always had the support of my family. They never had a problem with my profession.
What is your career’s defining role?
My career’s defining role would be in television, which was long ago. I was acknowledged because of a drama serial Bol Meri Machli. To this day, I hold it close to my heart.
What was the most daunting character you had to play?
I don’t think I have had the opportunity to play something that intimidating. All the other characters I have played so far have been relatively easy, not too difficult or daunting. I am still waiting for that kind of role though!
Are you good at accents?
Yes, I think I am. I can speak Punjabi and pull off a good Punjabi, British, American and French accent. I would like to learn more!
Modeling and acting aside, what is your unknown talent?
I have many talents but they are very sporty. I love snooker, artery, hiking, camping and traveling.
Any project in the works?
Two projects will be out soon. One of them I am extremely excited about is a drama ‘Dushman’, which everyone will get to watch soon.
Does a casting couch exist in Pakistan?
I believe it exists everywhere in the world. Not that I know of! I don’t think I have ever been casted on a couch.
Is social media toxic?
Unfortunately, yes (laughs). It is the weirdest and saddest drug in today’s day and age. You are addicted to it and cannot escape it. I would speak for all of us. I think our phones, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Snapchat are highly addictive social media platforms. It is a waste of time but everyone is involved in it.
How important is philanthropy to you?
It is very important to be charitable. First, you owe it to God. As a Muslim and human being, everyone should put charitable work to good use. As an actor, I try my best. It would be a matter of great significance if we could change the society through some public awareness message.
What do you hate and love about life?
I think love and hate have transforming powers. They could be great soul changers. That is what defines it. Love and hate can change one’s life and it affects people.
What was a defining moment in your life?
It would be when I gave birth to my son.
What are you most proud of?
My family, mostly my kids and friendships that I have had for so many years.
You have an impeccable sense of style. Who do you look up to in the fashion world?
In Hollywood, I like Blake Lively and Victoria Beckham. I like women who are more comfortable in their own skin. Anybody who carries something well is a fashion icon.
What is your go to look?
My jeans, a t-shirt, sunglasses and a pair of sneakers.
Are you a fashion risk taker or do you like to keep it classy?
It really depends on my mood. Mostly, I love to keep it classy but I am also a fashion risk taker.
Fall or spring?
It depends – I love fall in New York City and spring in London. Spring is nice here in Pakistan too.
Fall or spring fashion?
Fall fashion – I feel that in Pakistan there is no set concept of fall or spring fashion but in the West, be it New York Fashion Week or Milan, fall fashion is very much looked up to.
What super power would you like to have?
Teleporting into time travel and maybe telepathy – I would like to control and read minds.
Are you a night owl?
No, I am not a night owl at all! I am more of an early riser.
What is your phobia?
Probably drowning in water. I can’t swim!
Your favorite cuisine?
I like food everywhere but I love desi, Pakistani food, even if I am traveling!
Are you a coffee or tea person?
I am a tea person. I must have my cup of tea in the morning.
Your favorite movie quote?
I am a movie buff! On top of my head right now is a quote from Godfather where Vito Corleone says, “I am going to make him an offer he cannot refuse.”
A message for your fans.
Always dream big, follow your dreams and believe in something. As long as you believe, it will happen. That is what I have done my entire life.
Published in Daily Times, December 4th 2018.