Srinagar, August 25, 2025: Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi launched her debut novel, Zeba: An Accidental Superhero, during the centenary celebrations of the India Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Srinagar on Sunday evening. The event, attended by dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and literary enthusiasts, marked a significant milestone in Qureshi’s creative journey as she steps into the literary world with a fantasy fiction novel set in a mystical mountain kingdom.Speaking to the media, Qureshi described Zeba as a story about “a female superhero who changes the world,” drawing inspiration from her mother and the resilient women of Kashmir.
The novel, published by HarperCollins, follows Zeba, a sassy and flawed protagonist who embarks on an unexpected journey to superheroism, challenging stereotypes and embodying empowerment. Qureshi highlighted the cultural richness of Kashmir, noting, “Kashmir has so many stories, cultures, and folklore. It should be promoted.”Qureshi, known for films like Gangs of Wasseypur and Bayaan—the latter set for a world premiere at TIFF 2025—emphasized that Zeba is a “homage to every misfit,” reflecting her own experiences. The launch at the prestigious ICC event underscores her growing influence as an author and storyteller.