In the dazzling world of Pakistani entertainment, many new faces appear every year—but only a few manage to truly captivate audiences and critics alike. Zubab Rana is one such shining star. With her expressive eyes, natural acting talent, elegant screen presence, and a strong commitment to her craft, she has become one of the most talked-about young actresses on Pakistani television today. Zubab’s journey is a tale of ambition, hard work, personal loss, and remarkable achievements that continue to inspire many aspiring performers in the country.
Early Life & Education
Zubab Rana was born on June 3, 1996, in Karachi, Pakistan. She grew up in a non-showbiz family, with a strong focus on education and values. Zubab was a bright student and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, reportedly from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), one of Pakistan’s most prestigious institutions. Her academic background reflects a well-rounded personality—someone who balances intellect with artistic flair.
Though Zubab’s family had no prior links to the entertainment industry, she was always drawn to glamour, fashion, and the performing arts. Her parents supported her dreams, especially her father, Rana Maqbool Hussain, who played a crucial role in encouraging her career. Unfortunately, she lost her father to COVID-19 in August 2021, a personal tragedy that deeply impacted her. Still, she continued to work with strength and professionalism, earning praise not just for her acting, but also for her resilience.
From the Ramp to the Screen – A Dream Takeoff
Zubab began her career in the entertainment industry as a fashion model. She was featured in commercials, magazine shoots, and TV ads for various high-end Pakistani brands. With her sharp features, graceful movements, and camera-friendly charm, she quickly gained popularity in the modeling world.
However, Zubab had greater ambitions—she didn’t want to remain just a face in fashion. She aspired to be an actress, someone who could tell stories, portray emotions, and leave a lasting impact through performance. This dream came true in 2017, when she was offered her first television role.
Entry Into Dramas – The Big Leap
Zubab made her acting debut with the Hum TV drama Naseebo Jali (2017). Although a small role, her talent was immediately noticeable. She had a natural ease on screen, and producers began to take note of her potential.
In 2018, she got her big breakthrough with ARY Digital’s Mere Khudaya. Zubab played the antagonist Aleena, a selfish and manipulative girl who brings chaos into others’ lives. It was a challenging role, but Zubab handled it with stunning maturity. Her performance won her a Lux Style Awards nomination for Best Emerging Talent. More importantly, it proved her versatility and acting range.
Hit Dramas That Made Her a Household Name
Zubab’s career soared after Mere Khudaya. She followed it up with one successful project after another. Each drama not only showcased her acting talent but also her ability to adapt to very different characters and genres:
1. Bandish (2019, ARY Digital)
A supernatural thriller that mixed horror and emotion, Bandish became a cult favorite. Zubab played Hania, a young girl targeted by black magic. Her portrayal of fear, vulnerability, and courage was highly appreciated. The drama was one of ARY’s highest-rated shows that year.
2. Rishtay Biktay Hain (2019)
This family drama focused on the evil of dowry culture. Zubab played a strong character dealing with societal pressure and family politics. Her chemistry with co-star Ali Abbas was also well received.
3. Mehboob Aapke Qadmon Mein (2020, Hum TV)
In this romantic yet intense story, Zubab was part of a twisted love triangle. The emotional depth she brought to her role showed how much she had matured as an actress.
4. Bharaas (2020–2021, ARY Digital)
Another major hit, this serial saw Zubab playing a modern Pakistani woman caught in a web of jealousy and betrayal. She handled the emotional rollercoaster of her character with complete control.
5. Woh Pagal Si (2022)
This drama brought her back into the spotlight with a strong lead role. The story revolved around deception and revenge, and Zubab’s performance was praised for its power and subtlety.
6. Behroop (2023)
In Behroop, Zubab played a layered character who goes through many emotional changes. She carried the weight of the story on her shoulders and earned both audience love and critical acclaim.
7. Khudsar (2024)
One of her most recent projects, Khudsar, features Zubab as a strong, independent woman who fights against injustice and societal judgment. It reflects her evolving choice in scripts—moving toward bold, thought-provoking roles.
Expanding Horizons – Her Singing Debut
Zubab surprised everyone in 2021 when she appeared on the music show Kashmir Beats and sang the track “Teri Photo”. Fans were amazed by her melodious voice and stage presence. This performance opened up a new chapter in her artistic journey—showing that she’s not just an actress, but a multi-talented performer who isn’t afraid to take risks.
Style, Personality & Public Image
Zubab Rana is known for her elegant style, intelligent interviews, and positive energy. She avoids controversies and maintains a clean, respectful image in the media. Off-screen, she is kind, witty, and grounded.
Her friendship with Hira Mani is well known in the industry. Zubab often refers to Hira as her “soul sister” and credits her for giving valuable guidance in her early acting days.
In terms of inspiration, Zubab admires Sonia Hussain, Sanam Saeed, and Syra Yousaf for their artistic courage. She dreams of one day playing Umrao Jaan, a role that combines music, tragedy, and grace—a true test of an actress’s capabilities.
Social Media Presence
Zubab is very active on Instagram (@zubab.rana), where she shares glimpses of her personal life, behind-the-scenes photos from shoots, fashion looks, and motivational quotes. With over 1.6 million followers, she is one of the most followed rising actresses in Pakistan.
Her social media reflects her artistic sensibility, emotional intelligence, and humble nature. Unlike many celebrities, she avoids showing off luxury or engaging in online fights. Instead, she focuses on connecting with fans and promoting positivity.
Awards & Recognition
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Lux Style Awards Nomination (2019) – Best Emerging Talent for Mere Khudaya
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Regular nominee at ARY Social Media Awards and Hum Style Awards
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Praised for her emotionally powerful acting in Bandish, Bharaas, and Woh Pagal Si
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Featured in magazines like OK! Pakistan, Mag the Weekly, and Sunday Times
Future Goals & Ambitions
Zubab Rana is not in a hurry. She believes in taking her time, choosing good scripts, and letting her work speak for itself. She has said in interviews that while film offers have come her way, she is waiting for the right script that gives her a meaningful role.
She dreams of playing historical and classical characters that demand deep preparation—proving she wants to build a legacy, not just a career.
In her personal life, she has mentioned that she hopes to be married and settled in the next 5–10 years—but only with someone who respects her ambitions and supports her growth.
Final Thoughts
Zubab Rana is much more than a pretty face on television. She is an actress with substance, a performer with passion, and a woman with integrity. Her journey from a regular girl in Karachi to a rising star of Pakistani television is full of lessons in patience, perseverance, and positivity.
With every new role, she pushes herself further, exploring new emotions and storytelling styles. Whether she’s making us cry in Mehboob Aapke Qadmon Mein, scaring us in Bandish, or empowering us in Khudsar, Zubab Rana always leaves a mark.
