Discover the fascinating life and career of Maya Ali, a prominent Pakistani actress and model celebrated for her work in television and film. From her early life to her numerous achievements, this comprehensive biography unveils all aspects of her journey.
Wiki/Biography
Maryam Tanveer Ali, known professionally as Maya Ali, was born on Thursday, July 27, 1989, in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Her zodiac sign is Leo. She completed her Masters in Mass Communication from Queen Mary College, Lahore.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 7″
- Eye Colour: Gray
- Hair Colour: Brown
Family, Caste & Boyfriend
Maya Ali comes from a Muslim family. Her mother’s name is Shagufta Nazar. Sadly, her father passed away in 2016. She has two younger brothers, Afnan Qureshi and Saqlain Hayder.
Throughout her career, Maya has been linked romantically to several actors, including Osman Khalid Butt and Sheheryar Munawar. However, she has never publicly confirmed any relationships.
Career
Maya Ali’s journey began as a journalist. She worked for a newspaper before transitioning to become a VJ (video jockey) at Samaa TV. She also had stints at Waqt News and Dunya News.
Her acting debut was in the Pakistani TV serial “Durr-e-Shahwar” (2012), where she portrayed Mahnoor Sami. Her first lead role was in Geo TV’s “Aik Nayee Cinderella” (2012-2013) as Meesha/Cinderella.
She gained immense popularity through successful Pakistani serials like Aunn Zara (2013), Khoya Khoya Chand (2013), Shanakht (2014), Zid (2014-2015), Mera Naam Yousuf Hai (2015), Mann Mayal (2016), and Sanam (2016-2017).
Maya made her film debut with the 2018 Pakistani film “Teefa in Trouble,” playing Anya alongside Ali Zafar. This film achieved significant commercial success in Pakistan and was internationally distributed by Yash Raj Films – a notable achievement for a non-Indian film. Her subsequent film role was in “Parey Hut Love” (2019) as Saniya.
Beyond acting, Maya has also enjoyed a successful modeling career, walking the ramp for renowned designers like Nomi Ansari and Mohsin Naveed Ranjha. She has been a brand ambassador for several brands including Lux, Qmobile, and Diva body spray, and even served as the brand ambassador for the Quetta Gladiators in the 2018 Pakistan Super League.
Controversy
In 2018, a photo of Maya sharing a teacup with her makeup artist sparked controversy on social media, leading to criticism and the subsequent removal of the image.
An interview with the BBC Asian Network, where she discussed her family’s initial disapproval of her acting career, also generated negative reactions from some viewers.
Awards & Achievements
Maya Ali has received numerous accolades for her work:
Award | Category | Year | Project |
---|---|---|---|
IPPA Awards | Best Actor Female Film Viewer’s Choice | 2019 | Teefa in Trouble |
Lux Style Awards | Best Actress Drama (Jury) | 2017 | Mann Mayal |
Galaxy Lollywood Awards | Best Female Debut | 2019 | Teefa in Trouble |
Galaxy Lollywood Awards | Best Onscreen Couple (shared with Ali Zafar) | 2019 | Teefa in Trouble |
Hum Awards | Best Onscreen Couple (Jury) – shared with Osman Khalid Butt | 2016 | Diyar-e-Dil |
Hum Awards | Best Drama Actress (Popular) | 2016 | Diyar-e-Dil |
Favourite Things
- Food: Aloo ka Paratha, Pizza, Biryani
- Restaurant: The Monal in Islamabad
- Actor(s): Ranveer Singh, Sheheryar Munawar
- Actress: Mahira Khan
- Director(s): Karan Johar, Asim Raza
- Films: Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), 27 Dresses (2008)
- Politician: Imran Khan
- Colour(s): Henna Green, Red
- Book: The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak
- Fictional Character: Thor
- Travel Destination(s): London, Paris
Facts/Trivia
Maya enjoys reading, watching movies and shows, and traveling. She is also a passionate sportswoman, having played basketball, cricket, hockey, tennis, and badminton at a school level.
Interestingly, she initially aspired to a career in sports but family circumstances led her to pursue other avenues. She started her career as a VJ while studying for her Masters degree. Her acting career began when she was offered a role in a drama series without informing her family.
She’s a brand ambassador for the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Lahore, and actively campaigns against breast cancer.