Actress Zarina Wahab, who is eagerly anticipating the release of her upcoming film ‘The Raja Saab’, has shared her thoughts on why she has become increasingly selective about her work in Hindi cinema.
At a special event in Mumbai for her film, she discussed her shift towards the South Indian film industry.
“I have been working in the industry for more than 40 years now. I am from Andhra, so I can speak good Telugu, much better than anybody else. Everybody kept asking me why I wasn’t working in Telugu films. I’ve worked in a few, but this film is bringing me more fame,” she stated.
Zarina elaborated on her experience, saying, “People in Bombay ask me, why are you doing Telugu films? Hindi films main family mar gayi hai. There’s no family. Sirf South mai family abhi bhi zinda hai (The concept of family has died in Hindi; it’s only alive in the South). They produce such family-oriented films that people love to watch. I am currently working on 2-3 more Telugu movies.”
Despite her focus on regional cinema, she expressed gratitude towards Bollywood for her enduring career. “I am very thankful to the Telugu industry now, and I was very, very thankful to the Hindi industry also,” she remarked.
Zarina Wahab has a rich filmography, having appeared in notable films such as ‘Agar’, ‘Arth’, and ‘Dil Dhadakane Do’, and later transitioning into character roles across various languages. She is married to actor Aditya Pancholi and is the mother of actors Sooraj Pancholi and Sana Pancholi.
Regarding ‘The Raja Saab’, the film also features stars like Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar, and Zarina Wahab herself.
The storyline revolves around a man on a quest to find his missing grandfather, leading him into a mansion with a sinister presence.
Mark your calendars; the film is set to release on January 9, 2026.