The actress shares insights into the evolving landscape of global cinema and her desire for more dynamic action roles.
Empowering Women in Film: Tabu's Journey in Dune: Prophecy

Empowering Women in Film: Tabu's Journey in Dune: Prophecy
Bollywood star Tabu highlights the surge of women in leading roles, reflecting on her empowering experience in Dune: Prophecy.
In a recent interview, Bollywood icon Tabu expressed her excitement about the growing prominence of women in film and television. Currently portraying Sister Francesca in Dune: Prophecy, the adaptation of Frank Herbert's renowned novels, Tabu emphasizes the vital roles women are playing both in front of and behind the camera. She notes the influence of director Anna Foerster and the sense of empowerment that comes from such representation. "Being surrounded, feeling empowered and a feeling that you're the ones running the show... it's really, really nice to see that happening," she shared with BBC Asian Network News.
Tabu, a celebrated figure in Hindi cinema, observes that this trend extends beyond international projects; it is echoing in the Indian film industry as well. She reflects on her experience working in the Hindi film Crew alongside fellow actresses Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon, celebrating the shift towards female-centric narratives. "It's part of the big change and it was also because the women I was working with have accomplished so much in their fields," says the 53-year-old actress.
Dune: Prophecy has received praise from critics for its unique approach to science fiction, showcasing women's contributions throughout the production process. Tabu describes how the opportunity to collaborate with an international cast from various countries—including Serbia, Spain, and Germany—enriched her experience both on and off the set. "I got to interact with people from so many different parts of the world," she said, highlighting the cultural exchange that enhanced her creative expression.
Having enjoyed a successful career spanning decades, including appearances in notable Western productions like Life of Pi, Tabu maintains a mindset focused on growth. She believes that reflecting too much on past achievements can hinder her progress. "Sometimes I feel like I'm still new and I'm still learning so much," she admits, appreciating the ongoing support and love from her audience.
Tabu sees her role in Dune: Prophecy as a chance to explore and present her character in innovative ways, reinforcing her belief that cinema is a constantly evolving art form. She views acting as a personal journey, emphasizing the need to authentically express oneself every day in front of the camera. With aspirations for more action-oriented roles in her future, Tabu looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in her dynamic career.
Tabu, a celebrated figure in Hindi cinema, observes that this trend extends beyond international projects; it is echoing in the Indian film industry as well. She reflects on her experience working in the Hindi film Crew alongside fellow actresses Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon, celebrating the shift towards female-centric narratives. "It's part of the big change and it was also because the women I was working with have accomplished so much in their fields," says the 53-year-old actress.
Dune: Prophecy has received praise from critics for its unique approach to science fiction, showcasing women's contributions throughout the production process. Tabu describes how the opportunity to collaborate with an international cast from various countries—including Serbia, Spain, and Germany—enriched her experience both on and off the set. "I got to interact with people from so many different parts of the world," she said, highlighting the cultural exchange that enhanced her creative expression.
Having enjoyed a successful career spanning decades, including appearances in notable Western productions like Life of Pi, Tabu maintains a mindset focused on growth. She believes that reflecting too much on past achievements can hinder her progress. "Sometimes I feel like I'm still new and I'm still learning so much," she admits, appreciating the ongoing support and love from her audience.
Tabu sees her role in Dune: Prophecy as a chance to explore and present her character in innovative ways, reinforcing her belief that cinema is a constantly evolving art form. She views acting as a personal journey, emphasizing the need to authentically express oneself every day in front of the camera. With aspirations for more action-oriented roles in her future, Tabu looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in her dynamic career.