Kubbra Sait
Breaking Boundaries
While traipsing through the luxe aisles of Aza Juhu and Bandra to peruse the season’s finest, the Sacred Games actor opens up about her debut as an author, perception of holistic wellbeing, her sartorial philosophy, and more.
Photographs by Rommel Albuquerque; Styled by Kushal Parmanand; Makeup by Anu Mariya Jose; Hairstyling by Siddhesh Shinde; Coordinated by Aparna Badlani; Words by Aditya Mhatre
Q. Your career has been incredibly diverse. From working as a Marketing Programs Specialist at Microsoft to becoming an emcee (winning India's Best female Emcee Award in 2013), from your big break in acting with Ready to doing web series. Please share with us more about your career trajectory, about the professional choices you’ve made thus far.
KS: Well, I started out like any other middle-class girl looking for security and stability. But five years into the corporate world, I realized the rigid structure of that space was not bringing me any joy. I wasn't passionate about what I was doing – although I did it well – and that made me uncomfortable. Now, I always wanted to live in Bombay, so I pursued that dream. Initially, my focus was on just paying my bills and maintaining the modicum of success I had already achieved in the creative arts. I remember, back then I used to measure success in terms of fame and money instead of satisfaction. Then Sacred Games happened, and it made people notice me as an actor. The joy and satisfaction I felt from that validation is what made me realize that this feeling is something I’d like to chase. But I don’t wish to settle with just one thing. Be it as an emcee or TV host or actor, I want to explore multiple avenues.
Q. Sacred Games would not be what it is without your iconic Cuckoo. Please share with us how you approached the role. Also, how do you choose your film and OTT projects?
KS: It was an honour to have been able to portray a character like Cuckoo. For me, it’s never about the size of a role – although many tend to focus on that and take it out of context. I like working with people who are in the same energy realm as me and are passionate about creating something extraordinary. If a project doesn't work out in the end, it's beyond my control. But if I had a great experience working on a project, that's all that matters to me. About my roles, I feel sometimes the project chooses you – like Jawaani Jaaneman had picked me, and I'm so grateful for that opportunity.
Q. You have worked with noted filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap (Sacred Games), Raj & DK (Farzi), and Rajat Kapoor (RK/RKay). Please share anecdotes from your experiences working with them.
KS: Oh, they're all so different! Some of them are friends, a few are acquaintances. One thing that completely leaves me flummoxed is how Rajat Kapoor doesn't use a phone! I mean anyone who wants to contact Rajat must reach out to him via email – it’s quite interesting. Anurag will forever be close to my heart. He took a leap of faith with me and backed me as an actor when I didn't even identify myself as one. Raj & DK are my friends. I have the greatest time when I'm out with them. I also recently worked with Prakash Jha on an upcoming web series and Suparn Verma (on The Good Wife). They are all incredible human beings with widely different approaches to direction. I feel fortunate to have worked with them.
Q. You recently took on the role of Phara in the Apple TV series Foundation. Please tell us more about your character and your experience working on this project.
KS: As someone who never thought I'd get such an opportunity, Foundation was beyond my imagination. We all have aspirations – I have many – but when this opportunity presented itself, it was like a bolt of lightning. It was surreal. Phara was the show’s antagonist – someone who’s super jaded and exuded a strong sense of power and authority. You know we shot this sci-fi project during the pandemic. So we were away from our friends and family, the times were challenging… but it was super fulfilling working on this project. I feel a personal connection to the project. The fact that I was able to prove my mettle and move to the West while the world was in lockdown mode is such a great feeling. It taught me how resilient I am as a human being, and that, for me, is a life experience.
Q. In terms of acting, which are the actors you look up to and wish to work with?
KS: I have admired and idolized Kajol for the longest time – and I’m saying this because I’ve worked with her. Her portrayal of Anjali in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai was unparalleled. It was a dream-come-true for me to have had the opportunity to share the screen with her. I also got to work with Nana Patekar this year. Someday, I’d really love to work with Pankaj Tripathi, Manoj Bajpayee and Shabana Azmi. If ever I get to work with Shah Rukh Khan – someone I’ve idolized for long – it will be a pinch me and aha moment.
Q. Digitally, you are known for your witty posts. Please shed light on how you perceive social media as a tool for engaging with your followers.
KS: Honestly, I don't understand what game, spirit, or fervour you need to stay wild and hungry on social media. Like you blink and the goalpost has already shifted! Some days I just accept that ‘Oh my God, this pressure is getting to me.’ But there are days when I'm like, ‘I'm not affected by social media or its presence because I'm here to portray my most authentic self to people.’ I use my platform to talk about my book, my work, and my workouts. I genuinely enjoy what I do on social media. It may or may not translate into the kind of traction I need, but I understand that the ones I engage with are people with whom I share a sense of commonality.
Q. Your thoughts on using social media to promote body positivity and mental health awareness. On the same note, tell us about some of the initiatives you have been a part of.
KS: Mental health awareness is important to me. So, in the backdrop of the pandemic, I got certified to serve as a suicide prevention professional. I wanted to make myself available because I realized that in such situations, many people wish they had someone to talk to. There was an interesting phase in my life when I visited my therapist, who would help me delve into the root of my emotions. It helped me understand myself better. The book I authored helped me dig deeper into my feelings, and it was a truly liberating experience. I often use digital and social media to talk about mental health. In my book, I also speak about bullying and so many other things that affect us on a deeper level. If the content I share helps even one person in their journey of holistic wellbeing, I’d feel like I’ve done my job and used the social media platform to its optimum potential.
Q. You are frequently on the news for your bold fashion choices. How is it that you perceive fashion and what constitutes luxury to you?
KS: Just a few days ago, I was told off for wearing chappals to a friend's birthday party! I understand the need to cater to an image, but at the same time, why complain about the rules of the game if you still want to play it. I do love experimenting with fashion, and I love colours. You know, at the beginning of my career I was all about wearing premium designer brands like LV and Gucci. Of late, however, I’ve been more drawn to quiet luxury. Now I choose outfits based on how they make me feel – I like to peruse the fabric and understand the thought behind its construction. Having said that, I'm extremely blessed to have a fantastic team. I’m grateful for compliments that come my way.
Q. Who are your current favorite Indian designers and why?
KS: I’ve always admired Shantanu and Nikhil. The first Indian designer label item I ever purchased was Swapnil Shinde, who now goes by Saisha Shinde. Wearing my first Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla outfit was a huge deal for me. I love Masaba. I think Payal Singhal's designs are fun. It's amazing to see a healthy mix of new and established designers in the Indian fashion space now. Antar Agni is so good. I feel privileged to be living in such a creative time.
Q. You also turned author last year with Open Book: Not Quite a Memoir. What inspired you to it and what kind of response did you get out of it?
KS: It's been an enabling process for me – it helped me trace my journey and see the transformation I've undergone over the years. As I mentioned earlier, I feel lighter today and I walk with straight shoulders. I feel more forgiving and kinder. When I was traversing some difficult times, I felt alone in my pain. But after the book came out, so many people came up to me with similar experiences. I realized I wasn’t alone. It feels humbling to reassure my readers that they aren’t alone either. The book has made me appreciate my life and journey thus far.
Q. Please tell us about your current and upcoming projects.
KS: I have quite a few lined up this year. I have The Good Wife, Shehar Lakhot, Khwabon ka Jhamela, and Lal Batti. So, there’s much to watch out for!
Q. You happen to be an avid traveller, and your adventures also find mention in your book. Please share some unique travel experiences.
KS: I’m a complete foodie, and I love collecting unique gastronomical experiences when I travel. I love museums. I love art. I love a good coffee. I like adventure, so I pick and visit a new country every year. Last year I visited Finland and Sweden. It made me so happy to see the Northern Lights! Then I visited Japan and climbed Mount Fuji although I never had the chance to try a single sushi! I try to make myself a little more cognizant to the world that I live in by making sensible choices, and that makes me a better person, or at least, instils in me the need to be a better person.
Q. Please share with us your experience with Aza.
KS: I love your stores. You must know, before my appearance as a guest on Abish Matthew’s show, Son of Abish, I had requested someone from Aza to style my look, and you guys did a fantastic job! Ever since, Aza has been a one-stop shop for all my fashion needs. I'm grateful to Aza for always supporting me as an artist. May you thrive in all your business endeavours.
