Zainab Naqvi is a Dubai-based actor, holistic health coach, yoga instructor, and spiritual mentor who has spent over eight years in the health and wellness industry. She has helped numerous individuals navigate issues like hormonal imbalances, thyroid problems, weight loss, stress, anxiety, and lifestyle changes. Advocating for a holistic approach, Zainab believes in caring for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
On the acting front, Zainab has made significant strides with her work in theatre, short films, feature films, TV dramas, and as a show host. She is best known for her work with Nawazuddin Siddique in a Kenwood advertisement and her roles in critically acclaimed films like The Yellow Bus, produced by Guneet Monga. Zainab also won the Best Actress Award at the Emirates Film Festival for her performance in The Chase. She now lives in Dubai with her family.
This week, The Scoop sat down with Zainab for an exclusive conversation, exploring her personal and professional journey.
The Scoop (TS): Is there anything you would never let anyone take from you?
Zainab Naqvi (ZN): Everything is meant to be taken, but if I had to choose one, it would be my consciousness and ability to think.
TS: Last call you made?
ZN: To my ami (mother).
TS: What are some annoying habits of actors, models, and singers?
ZN: Some tend to be full of themselves. It’s not everyone, but often people make them feel like the world revolves around them, leading to inflated egos.
TS: Awards or rewards?
ZN: Why not both? (laughs) It used to be awards, but now I feel I’d choose rewards.
TS: What are you extremely possessive about?
ZN: My meditation room.
TS: What’s your annoying habit?
ZN: I create songs and sing them in the weirdest voices—loudly!
TS: Biggest or weirdest fear?
ZN: Insects or anything reptilian crawling on me.
TS: Two things you don’t understand about the entertainment/fashion industry?
ZN: Setting trends and then making people follow them.
TS: What bores you the most?
ZN: Small talk and inauthenticity.
TS: Acting, modeling, or hosting?
ZN: Acting and hosting.
TS: Are you a workaholic or a shopaholic?
ZN: I don’t believe in being any kind of “-holic.” I go by what’s necessary.
TS: Any relationship lessons you’ve learned?
ZN: Don’t give up if you truly love someone—until love itself gives up. Whatever triggers you is a reflection of something you need to heal. Focus on yourself, your efforts, and your duty. There’s a reason you’re together, and when that reason no longer exists, God will show you the way out.
TS: What are your healthy habits?
ZN: I start my day with yoga and a hot cleansing liquid, which changes over time. No caffeine, eating between 12 and 5, and having dinner as early as 6 pm. I sleep and wake up early, and I make sure to incorporate some form of movement into my daily routine.
TS: What’s your fitness formula?
ZN: Health is holistic for me, so I ensure I give attention to my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I follow the 80-20 rule: 80% healthy living, 20% indulgence. Life is about balance.
TS: Emotional or practical?
ZN: A bit of both. Our brains have two hemispheres for a reason—logic and emotion must work hand in hand.
TS: Do you follow a particular diet?
ZN: I’ve tried almost every diet out there. As a holistic health coach, I’ve learned that every body is different. There’s no one-size-fits-all. You need to listen to your body’s needs. Also, don’t forget your emotional and mental “diet”—it’s just as important.
TS: Happiness is…?
ZN: Being fully present and content with where you are.
TS: How do you manage acting, coaching, real estate, and being a mom all together?
ZN: Honestly, I never felt we were meant to do only one thing. There’s one life, so do what makes you happy. I love all these roles, so it doesn’t feel like a burden. When you enjoy what you do, you can manage it all.
TS: Which superstar inspires you the most?
ZN: Anyone working consistently towards their life’s purpose is a superstar in my eyes.
TS: Have you ever taken anything for granted?
ZN: I took my health for granted for many, many years.
TS: The last film that made you cry?
ZN: Gifted. But honestly, I cry at almost every movie!
TS: First paycheck?
ZN: My first job was as a sub-editor at a fashion magazine, and I earned PKR 10,000.
TS: Has anything changed your life?
ZN: The deaths of my father and brother.
TS: Three things people don’t know about you?
ZN: I’m an amazing therapist, I can effortlessly connect emotions to behaviors, and I have a very high emotional intelligence (EQ).
TS: What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
ZN: I stretch!
TS: Chai dhaaba or restaurant?
ZN: Chai dhaaba, any day. I only go to restaurants occasionally.
TS: What do you think this country needs the most?
ZN: Sincerity and loyalty from each one of us.
TS: Would you rather go back and undo a mistake or see your future?
ZN: I’d go to the future.
TS: Luck or hard work?
ZN: Luck might get you things, but hard work sustains them.
TS: Any message for your followers?
ZN: Observe, reflect, and heal. All wisdom is within you. Don’t follow the crowd, media, or anyone else—listen to your heart, face your fears, and trust the process. Everything is happening for you, not to you.
TS: Your skincare routine?
ZN: I’m not a fan of the new era’s bombardment of skincare products. I only use my own handmade oils—almond, jojoba, frankincense, and rose water. Simple and natural!
This candid conversation with Zainab Naqvi revealed not just her multifaceted career, but also her deeply reflective and balanced approach to life. Whether through her work in acting or her passion for holistic wellness, Zainab continues to inspire many on their journeys to health and self-discovery.
