Talented teenager takes TV by storm
HOW 17-YEAR-OLD IMLIE LEAD SUMBUL TOUQEER KHAN BECAME THE BIG BREAKOUT STAR OF 2021
PERFECTLY playing the title character in super hit Star Plus drama serial Imlie has turned Sumbul Touqeer Khan into the biggest new breakout star on Indian television in 2021.
The 17-year-old’s stunning portrayal of a feisty village girl who finds herself in new surroundings and an unusual triangle after she is forced to get married has won the hearts of audiences around the world. The talented young actress, who was seen playing a supporting role in 2019’s best Bollywood film
Article 15, has shown off her impressive range as a performer in Imlie and quickly become massively popular.
Eastern Eye caught up with the rapidly rising star to discuss her life-changing Imlie journey, greatest hero, future hopes and the pressure of carrying a big show.
What first connected you to acting?
I never thought of becoming an actor. I always wanted to be a dancer and open my own dance institute all over the globe. That was my dream. After two to three years in acting, I realised that it gives me great freedom; for example, I have done a lot of dance sequences in my shows. Acting makes a person versatile and you can experience things you never expected. So, as an actor, I learnt a lot of things and eventually, that’s how the connection happened.
How did you feel acting in the film Ayushmann Khurrana?
Article 15 opposite
My experience working with him was overtly overwhelming. He is such a down-to-earth person and has a charismatic aura, which is soothing. Most of my scenes were with him. I had the best time of my life shooting with him.
How did you feel landing the title role in
Imlie? I can’t express how I feel about my role in words. I got this role unexpectedly and wondered whether people would like me or not. I dedicated myself towards the work but understood the engagement of the audiences solely depended on the story and justifying the character. The feedback we got in the very first