Sumbul Touqeer’s Crossover to Jhaad Foonk: TV Talent Shines in Cinema/OTT”

By Anil Merani: Sumbul Touqeer has officially began shooting for a new project titled Jhaad Foonk, a supernatural thriller, alongside Harsh Rajput. This marks an exciting transition for her from television to a new medium.

The first look, shared on May 30, 2025, has generated significant buzz, with fans on X expressing their excitement. Many have called it a “masterpiece” and praised Sumbul’s suitability for the role. Posts suggest this is a project she has always wanted to be part of, indicating it aligns with her acting aspirations. Although the source does not explicitly state whether Jhaad Foonk is a film or an OTT project, the use of the term “screen” in fan posts, along with the production context, leans toward a cinematic or OTT release, marking a significant step beyond television.

 Recognition for TV Actors

The new  trend of  TV actors receiving the recognition they deserve is well-supported by Sumbul’s trajectory. Known for her powerful performances in Imlie and Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon, Sumbul has built a strong fanbase. This is evident from posts on X calling her a “rockstar” and praising her “talent, grace, and main character energy.” The Indian entertainment industry is increasingly blurring the lines between TV, cinema, and OTT, as seen with successful transitions by actors like Mouni Roy and Hina Khan. Sumbul’s involvement in Jhaad Foonk reflects this trend, parallel to Western models where actors like Zendaya move fluidly across mediums. The coexistence of TV and cinema/OTT is evident in India’s growing OTT market, with platforms like Netflix and Prime Video casting TV actors in diverse roles, as seen in recent releases like Bhool Chuk Maaf.

Can Sumbul Adopt a “Glamorous Avatar” for Jhaad Foonk?

Current Image and Versatility: Sumbul is celebrated for her grounded, emotionally rich roles, such as her character in Imlie and the IAS officer in Kavya. Her expressive acting and natural charm have won her many fans, but her TV roles often leaned toward traditional or relatable looks rather than high-glamour aesthetics. However, her social media presence indicates she is no stranger to style—her posts feature her in a stunning blue satin saree and a blue-and-white cut-out dress, radiating elegance and charm. These looks suggest she can embrace the polished, glamorous avatar often required in cinema or OTT, especially for a supernatural thriller like Jhaad Foonk, which may demand a bold, stylized appearance to match its genre. This versatility in her style and roles makes her a promising candidate for a glamorous portrayal in Jhaad Foonk.

Readiness for Glamour: The glamorous avatar typical of films and OTT productions involves sleek costumes, bold makeup, and often urban or fantastical aesthetics, as showcased by actresses like Wamiqa Gabbi in Bhool Chuk Maaf or Pooja Hegde in Retro. Sumbul’s recent Instagram posts, including her “regal” entrance captured by Ulka Gupta and her chic ethnic outfits, indicate she is comfortable with glamorous styling. Fans on X emphasize her “main character energy,” suggesting the confidence that could translate well to a cinematic or OTT role. Additionally, her expressed passion for dance, highlighted in an April 2025 interview where she shared her dream of starring in a dance-based film, indicates her versatility, as dance-heavy roles often require a glamorous presentation. While Jhaad Foonk is a supernatural thriller, not a dance film, its genre may call for a dramatic, visually striking look that Sumbul appears capable of delivering.

Challenges and Industry Context: Sumbul’s past experiences with rejection due to her darker skin tone as a child artist highlight the industry’s biases toward conventional beauty standards, which could present challenges in her transition to glamorous roles in mainstream cinema or OTT. However, her confidence and the support from fans, evident from posts calling her a “queen,” suggest she can overcome such barriers. The supernatural thriller genre of Jhaad Foonk may allow for a unique blend of glamour and intensity, similar to projects like Stree 2, where actresses balanced allure with character depth. Sumbul’s ability to choose roles with substance, as seen in her TV work and her consideration for a Sony SAB show with Shabir Ahluwalia, indicates that she’ll prioritize projects that suit her strengths while adapting to the visual demands of cinema and OTT. The overwhelming fan support is a testament to her talent and the excitement surrounding her new project.

 Coexistence of Mediums

The trend of TV actors crossing over to cinema and OTT, as you noted, is growing in India, much like in the West. Sumbul’s potential role in Jhaad Foonk aligns with this shift, supported by the success of OTT platforms that emphasize talent over medium-specific boundaries. Her cameo in Jaadu Teri Nazar and her consideration for high-profile projects demonstrate that casting directors are recognizing her versatility. This coexistence is evident in the careers of actors like Saif Ali Khan, who have embraced OTT for its creative freedom, and in the buzz surrounding recent OTT releases like Thudarum. Sumbul’s move to Jhaad Foonk could further bridge this gap, showcasing TV actors’ ability to shine on larger screens. The current trends in the industry are both exciting and promising.

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