Saba Qamar
model, television presenter, actor
Saba Qamar Zaman is a prominent Pakistani actress and television presenter who works primarily in Urdu films and television series. She stands 5 feet 7 inches tall and has established herself as one of the most popular and highest-paid actresses in Pakistan. Throughout her career, she has transitioned from modeling to becoming a versatile performer in both television and film.
Early life and education
Saba Qamar Zaman was born on 5 April 1984 in Hyderabad, Sindh. Although some sources link her birthplace to Gujranwala near Lahore, biographical records state she was born in Hyderabad. She lost her father at a very young age. Consequently, she spent much of her childhood in Gujranwala living with her grandmother. She received her early education in Gujranwala before moving to Lahore to pursue further studies. Her family is currently settled in Karachi and includes five siblings.
Career
Qamar began her professional journey through modeling and commercial work. She gained significant fame through an advertisement for Super Biscuits. Her acting debut occurred in 2004 with the PTV drama serial Mein Aurat Hoon. Following this, she appeared in the telefilm Ishq and modeled for Abrar-ul-Haq's music video Boliyan in 2004. She played lead roles in several series such as Chaap in 2005 and various PTV classics including Phool and Apno Ka Sath in 2006.
Her career saw a major breakthrough with the historical drama Jinnah Ke Naam in 2009. In this production, she portrayed Ruqsana Inayatullah. She continued this momentum with successful roles in Dastaan and Uraan in 2010. Between 2011 and 2016, she starred in hit dramas including Maat, Pani Jaisa Piyar, Sangat, and Besharam. These performances earned her multiple Best Actress nominations.
Qamar also expanded into film and hosting. She appeared in the biographical film Manto in 2015 and the romantic comedy Lahore Se Aagey in 2016. For her role in the Indian drama Hindi Medium in 2017, she received a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Actress. Additionally, she served as a host and comedian on the political satire show Hum Sab Umeed Se Hain from 2009 to 2015. She is also known for portraying Fouzia Azeem in Baaghi and Noor Jehan in Main Manto.
Personal life
Saba Qamar maintains a level of privacy regarding her off-screen life. Despite this, her personal life remains a subject of substantial media coverage. She is actively involved with several humanitarian causes. Furthermore, she uses her platform to be vocal about issues facing women and children.
Awards and recognition
The actress has received numerous prestigious accolades throughout her career. On 23 July 2011, she won the PTV Award for Best Actress in both the jury and public choice categories for her role in Tinkay. She is a recipient of two Lux Style Awards, including one for Best TV Actress for her performance in Baaghi. Her honors also include three PTV Awards and a nomination for a Filmfare Award.
The Government of Pakistan has recognized her professional contributions with national honors. She was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in 2012. Later, she received the Pride of Performance in 2016. She has also been recognized by the International Pakistan Prestige Awards.