Acclaimed actor Huma Qureshi is back as Rani Bharti in the fourth season of the hit political drama series Maharani. Known for her bold roles and versatility, Huma opens up about the longevity of Maharani, her ambitions to be the most diverse performer in Indian cinema, and her honest views on the creative stagnation in Bollywood.
‘Maharani 4’ Raises the Stakes
The latest season of Maharani takes Rani Bharti’s story from Bihar to the corridors of power in Delhi. The uneducated homemaker-turned-Chief Minister is now making a daring bid for national leadership.
“This season is bigger in scale, with higher stakes and new characters,” says Huma. “The story has moved forward, and Rani’s journey is more complex than ever before.”
Huma, who once again reunites with her Gangs of Wasseypur co-star Vipin Sharma, says she was drawn to the depth and unpredictability of Rani’s evolution. “It’s a hero’s journey — but of a woman no one believed in. That’s what makes it so powerful.”
‘Rani Bharti Is My Most Loved Character’
Maharani has become one of the few Indian OTT shows to reach a fourth season, a feat that reflects its strong connection with audiences across India and abroad.
“The love I’ve received for Maharani is unmatched,” Huma shares. “Whether I’m in Banaras or London, people call me Rani Bharti. She represents the dreams and struggles of ordinary women who rise above all odds.”
The show’s unique mix of politics, personal struggle, and social themes continues to captivate viewers from every background — from homemakers to journalists.
On the Realism Debate: ‘It’s a Production Choice’
When asked about the show not being shot in Bihar, Huma admits it’s primarily a production and logistics decision, not a creative one.
“Of course, shooting in Patna or Darbhanga would add authenticity,” she says. “But locations are chosen based on convenience and cost. It’s never about avoiding the real Bihar.”
‘Subhash Kapoor Understands Politics Without Offending Anyone’
Talking about Maharani’s creator Subhash Kapoor, Huma praises his ability to blend sharp political commentary with entertainment.
“He’s one of the few filmmakers who can handle serious subjects with balance,” she says. “His stories speak from a human perspective — that’s why audiences with all kinds of political views enjoy his work.”
‘Bollywood Needs Braver Storytelling’
Addressing the current slump in Hindi cinema, Huma is refreshingly honest.
“Right now, the industry is scared,” she says. “We’re making fewer risky, story-driven films. In 2012, when I debuted, we had Barfi!, Gangs of Wasseypur, Kahaani, Vicky Donor — such diversity! Today, big-budget ‘macho’ films are doing well, which is great, but independent cinema is suffering.”
She adds that the obsession with social media trends has hurt creativity.
“You can’t make films with a short-form content mindset. Virality shouldn’t be the goal — storytelling should be.”
What’s Next for Huma Qureshi
Apart from Maharani 4, Huma has a busy year ahead with the feature film Single Salma and Delhi Crime Season 3, where she plays a dark, layered antagonist known as “Badi Didi.”
With each role, she continues to prove why she’s among the most fearless and adaptive actors in the country.
“I just want to keep surprising people — and myself — with every project,” Huma says with a smile.
Feature image Source – X/Huma Qureshi
