BHADERWAH/JAMMU: Bhaderwah-born model-turned-actress Sadia Khateeb, who has been steadily making her presence felt in Bollywood, is back in her home region to shoot for an upcoming, yet-untitled film. Calling the experience “absolutely blissful and amazing,” Khateeb says filming in Kashmir feels like a return to her roots.
The 27-year-old actress first rose to prominence with her debut in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Shikara (2020), based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits. “This is the second time that I am shooting here. The first time was for my debut film Shikara. My priorities in life are my family, my hometown, and my work,” she said, expressing joy over working again in the Valley.
Khateeb, who has been spotted shooting at multiple scenic locations, said being surrounded by Kashmir’s natural beauty energises her both personally and creatively. “I am always fond of nature, and I have just got all of it together because of my shoots, which I love the most. So yes, the feeling is blissful and amazing,” she said.
Videos from the shoot show the actress receiving a warm welcome at Srinagar airport, where she was greeted with flower garlands and cheers from fans. Locals have been gathering in large numbers at filming spots, adding to the excitement surrounding her return.
Born and raised in Bhaderwah, Sadia transitioned from modelling to films with Shikara, and later featured in Aanand L. Rai’s Raksha Bandhan (2022). She recently appeared alongside John Abraham in The Diplomat (2025), portraying Uzma Ahmed in a political thriller on India–Pakistan relations.
Her upcoming releases include the comedy Dadi Ki Shaadi with Neetu Kapoor and Omung Kumar’s Silaa, co-starring Harshvardhan Rane and Karanveer Mehra. The Silaa team recently wrapped up a schedule in Vietnam before resuming shooting in Kashmir.
Reflecting on her journey, Khateeb said her biggest fear remains “losing people I love.” She also shared a humorous anecdote about almost missing her early break when she blocked a casting call for Laila Majnu, assuming it was fake.
Despite her growing stature in Bollywood, the actress continues to emphasise her emotional connection to Jammu and Kashmir. “Returning to the Valley reconnects me with my roots and renews my purpose as an artist,” she said.
With her new project underway and a strong line-up of films ahead, Sadia Khateeb’s homecoming has generated excitement among local fans and filmmakers alike—adding another chapter to her journey from Bhaderwah to Bollywood stardom.
