Sumbul Touqeer: After Bigg Boss, I don’t trust anyone easily

Sumbul Touqeer Khan

At 19, Sumbul Touqeer already has 21 shows behind her. Not many can boast such success at such a young age. But Touqeer, who began her career at the age of 10, knew that acting was her calling. She became a household name when she played the lead in Imlie in 2020. As she headlines Kavya - Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon, the actor talks about how the industry and its experiences have helped her grow as an artiste and as a human being.

Edited excerpts from the interview.

After gaining fame as Sumbul, you changed your name to Eza in between. Why?
I had tried to [adopt] the name, but didn't go ahead with it because I had done a lot of work as Sumbul. No one would be able to figure that it is the same person.

You started your journey as a child actor on television, then starred in Article 15. Why didn't you take the leap to films after that?
I am hungry for work. Today if someone asks me if I want to do films, I will say, yes. Why wouldn't anyone want to do films? However, I don't feel the need to restrict myself to one medium.

What kind of growth have you seen in yourself as an actor over the years?
I watch movies belonging to different genres, I read a lot of novels, and imbibe some traits of these characters. I make it a point to watch one film every day. I consider it my research; I see how people play other characters, and I am not talking about the main leads. The supporting actors lend more to [the variety].

Did your dad help you hone your craft?
When we came [to Mumbai], he didn't know anything about the TV industry. My sister and I began acting and that is how we all started understanding [the business]. We discuss [my career decisions] together. We have creative differences sometimes, but we respect each other's opinions. I don't talk where my opinions are not respected. That's why I was so quiet on Bigg Boss 16 [laughs].

What did you learn from your Bigg Boss experience?
I learnt to figure out whether [a fight or a person] is worth exerting your energy on. Sometimes, you don't have to respect everybody. It should only be given to those who deserve it. Also, now I don't trust anyone easily.

Did you develop trust issues?
Majorly. I want to feel safe and secure. That's why nobody knows anything about me now.

How important is it to be street-smart in the glamour world?
It is crucial. Sadly, I am not [street-smart] at all, but I am learning. I have become quite calm and have adopted an I-don't-care [attitude]. For example, I don't take trolls seriously. I believe they have too much free time or are jealous of my success. The day we make it a rule that every tweet or comment would cost R1, they will stop. However, my family is my top priority.

One trait from any of your characters that stuck with you?
Kavya [her character in Kavya - Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon] is a very passionate woman, which is commendable. When I essay the role, I can feel her passion to be an [IAS officer]. When I started acting, I [harboured a similar passion]. Even though I am a good dancer and could have become a choreographer, I wanted to act and do nothing else.

What kind of research did you do to play an IAS officer authentically?
I watched interviews of IAS officers to [notice] how they talk and walk. They have a powerful personality and demeanour; they own the room.