Who is Zoya Afroz? ‘Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web’ actress’ life story and career journey |
Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web, the recently released crime thriller series, has been generating buzz for its intense airport-based narrative and strong performances. The show stars Emraan Hashmi, Sharad Kelkar, Amruta Khanvilkar, Zoya Afroz, Nandish Sandhu, and Anurag Sinha. While audiences are praising the gripping plot, many have also turned their attention to Zoya Afroz.
Her early life and education
Zoya Afroz was born on January 10, 1994. She hails from Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, and was born in Lucknow to Shadaab and Saleha Afroz. What makes her journey remarkable is how early it began. She entered the entertainment industry at just three years old, working in films, television, and commercials while most children her age were still learning their alphabets.Despite her early start, Zoya never compromised on education. She studied at R N Shah High School in Mumbai and later completed her Bachelor of Commerce degree from Mithibai College, Vile Parle. This balance between academics and work reflects the discipline that continues to define her career.
The pageant phase that changed everything
Zoya’s confidence extended beyond acting. At 18, she stepped into the world of beauty pageants and won Femina Miss Indore 2013, which gave her wider recognition. Years later, she reached a major milestone by winning Miss India International 2021 at the Glamanand Supermodel India contest.The victory earned her the opportunity to represent India at Miss International 2022 in Japan. More than just a crown, the achievement showcased her poise, resilience, and ability to shine on a global platform.
From child artist to adult debut and beyond
Zoya made her first on-screen appearance as a child artist in the television show Kora Kagaz in 1998. She soon went on to feature in popular films such as Hum Saath Saath Hain, Mann, and Kuch Naa Kaho. Recalling her time on the sets of Hum Saath Saath Hain, she once shared, “Everyone knows how fond of kids Salman sir really is. He would bring us chocolates and joke around with us.”As an adult, Zoya made her Bollywood debut with The Xposé (2014), which emerged as a commercial success. Since then, she has steadily built her career with projects like Matsya Kaand, Mukhbir, Fireflies, and Sikandar Ka Muqaddar, carving a niche for herself through consistent and varied performances.