Yumna Zaidi

Yumna Zaidi is a Pakistani television actress who works in Urdu dramas. She is recognized for her portrayals of characters in social and romantic series.

Career

Zaidi made her screen debut in 2012 through a supporting role in the ARY Digital domestic drama Thakan. This performance preceded her leading role in the melodrama Khushi Ek Roag. She later appeared in the series Teri Raah Main Rul Gai, where she played the character Maryam alongside Samiya Mumtaz and Sami Khan.

Her career progressed through several significant television projects. In 2013, she starred in the family drama Meri Dulari and the revenge-themed Ullu Baraye Farokht Nahi. The latter production earned her a nomination for the Hum Award for Best Supporting Actress. She established herself as a leading actress after portraying a troubled wife in the 2013 tragic romance Rishtay Kuch Adhooray Se. This role resulted in nominations for both the Hum Award for Best Actress and Best Actress Popular.

Zaidi appeared in several productions throughout 2014 and 2015. She performed in Mausam, Madawa, Guzaarish, Jugnoo, Kaanch Ki Guriya, Paras, and Aap ki Kaneez. In 2016, she played the lead character Uzma Ikhtiar in the series Zara Yaad Kar. Her performance in the 2017 romantic comedy Yeh Raha Dil earned her a nomination for Best on-screen couple at the Hum Awards.

Critical acclaim followed her work in Dar Si Jaati Hai Sila in 2017. She portrayed Sila, a victim of sexual harassment, in this production directed by Bee Gul. A critic from The News International noted that she pulled off the role effortlessly despite having fewer dialogues. Between 2018 and 2019, she appeared in Pukaar and the social drama Inkaar. She also made a special appearance in the anthology series Choti Choti Batain.

Her success continued with roles in Pyar Ke Sadqay in 2020 and Dil Na Umeed To Nahi in 2021. The 2022 drama Bakhtawar earned her a Lux Style Award for Best Television Actress. She also received significant recognition for her role in Tere Bin during 2022.

Zaidi transitioned to film in 2024 with the titular role in Nayab, directed by Umair Nasir Ali. The film follows an aspiring cricketer. Writing for The Express Tribune, Shafiq Siddiqui noted that the film struggled with an excessively long runtime. He also stated that Zaidi's performance lacked the lines required to make her character memorable.

Beyond acting, she has engaged in other creative pursuits. She writes Sufi poetry and recites her work on social media. In 2017, she appeared on the comedy talkshow Mazaaq Raat and walked the ramp for Aisha Farid's Crystalline collection during Bridal Couture Week.

Awards and recognition

Zaidi is the actress with the most Lux Style Award wins. She has received 7 Lux Style Awards throughout her career. Her accolades also include 2 Hum Awards.