She’s captured our hearts with her poignant portrayals of some very unique characters in her drama serials, but remains a humble individual at heart. This fortnight, Kinza Hashmi chats with Mehek Raza Rizvi about her roles, her life at home and what the future may hold

Do you ever worry about getting labelled or typecast when playing an intense negative character?

Being typecast or labelled never worries me, because I try making each role I play appear different from the last; this applies to playing a protagonist as well. I read the character in depth and design it with my team by working on my looks and delivering dialogues in a way that doesn’t feel similar to previous projects.

“The modern woman of today is independent and empowered, which is why we’re able to tackle any bigotry we may be subjected to”

As a woman, have you experienced any inherent prejudices in your line of work?

The modern woman of today is independent and empowered, which is why we’re able to tackle any bigotry we may be subjected to. This is true not just for the entertainment industry, but for women in every sphere of life. Chauvinism and prejudice of any kind is not a roadblock for us, nor can it make us doubt our competence.

You surprised fans by posting a cover of “Sajna” on your Instagram. Is there a chance you may take up singing professionally as well?

Singing is something I really enjoy. Whenever I’m with my friends or just generally in a good place, I sing—it makes my soul happy. I can’t say I’ve thought about taking it up professionally yet, but if an opportunity arises, I’d be open to it.

“I’ve never had to worry about being overshadowed. I think if you’re putting in your hundred percent, such issues are never a concern”

Despite being poles apart, most of your characters have one thing in common: they’re all multi-layered, complex women. Is this a conscious decision?

I don’t think all characters I’ve played are complex, but yes, I like portraying different shades of women through the roles I essay. This is why they’re always relatable, regardless of whether I’m an antagonist or protagonist. When choosing scripts, I’m mindful of selecting only the ones that offer relatable roles that are unique in some way.

With the conversation on gender equality and feminism on the rise, how important is it for female actors to choose their roles carefully and avoid playing the damsel in distress?

I believe we have two kinds of women in our society: type one is the brave, educated and independent woman, while type two is dependent on others for her livelihood, is underconfident and submissive. I’ve done many projects where I got to play type one, for example, “Rani Nokrani,” “Tera Yahan Koi Nahi,” and “Seerat.” I feel such characters are aspirational and give women a role model to look up to. I will always look forward to portraying characters that can inspire my female audience.

Having said that, I’ve depicted type two in multiple projects as well. The intention behind that is not to set misleading standards, but to drive attention towards a need for women to be autonomous. I hope to encourage them to liberate themselves, while also making their voices heard. It’s important to make drama serials realistic in order to educate our masses.

“I struggled a lot for my big break, but the long wait was definitely worth it”

You’ve starred in many projects with ensemble casts. Is being overshadowed ever a concern?

Allah has been very kind; I’ve never had to worry about being overshadowed. I think if you’re putting in your hundred percent, such issues are never a concern. I have faith in my skills and work really hard, so know it’ll bear fruit.

Tell us about your experience working alongside Saboor Aly in “Gul-o-Gulzar.”

It’s always great doing a project with a good team and cast—even better when you get to work with a friend. It was a comfortable experience over all.

How did you get your big break in the industry? Is a career in TV something you always wanted to pursue?

I always wanted to be part of the entertainment industry and to appear on TV; it was my childhood dream. I struggled a lot for my big break, but the long wait was definitely worth it.

Can we expect to see you in films in the near future?

You never know. I guess you’ll have to wait and find out.

What is Kinza Hashmi like at home? Tell us about your childhood and family.

Kinza Hashmi is as ordinary as anyone else. I live a normal life and am a simple person. My childhood was uncomplicated and is a chapter filled with cherished memories.

When at home, I like to spend time with my family and close friends. I enjoy peaceful gatherings; I’m the happiest when my father reads books to me and my mother cooks scrumptious meals for us.

SHORT & SWEET

What was the last photo you took?

Food prepared by me

What was the last lie you told?

A friend very kindly delivered a home cooked meal to my place, but I hadn’t tasted it when she called to ask how I liked it. I had to lie and tell her it was delicious. I hope she isn’t reading this.

Last impulsive buy?

I’m always impulsive when it comes to shopping, especially with clothes and shoes.

Your personal style in three words?

Stylish, graceful, elegant.

A habit you have that annoys your family?

I don’t receive calls on time.

Favourite costar?

Azekah Daniel

Best friend within the industry?

Vasia Fatima

Theater, film or TV?

TV

Alternate career choice?

Singing

Favourite dialogue from a project of yours? 

“Aik tum hi tou ho jisay meri parwah thi. Bohat dil dukhaya mene tumhara, dekho khush mein bhi nai hoon, muhabbat k liye tarap rahi hoon. Mujhy saza do Arham, dil tornay ki saza.”

Rushna, last episode of “Ishq Tamasha”

(You’re the only one who ever cared for me. I hurt you; look, I’m not happy either and am longing for love. Punish me Arham, punish me for breaking your heart)

Photography: Jaffer Hasan

Styling: The Emergency Room

Hair & Makeup: Adnan Ansari

Wardrobe: Siddhartha Bansal, Farah Sanjana & Ridhi Sanjana at Vesimi