On selecting roles, discovering secret talents and family
The versatile actress has become a household name as she conquers our television screens with powerful performances one after the other. Mehek Raza Rizvi sits down for a candid chat with Saboor to find out more about her aspirations and life in quarantine
You seem to be indulging in old passions in quarantine, including cooking and painting. Are there any talents of yours people may be unaware of?
I make sure I keep my fans aware of my activities during quarantine, so any talents I may discover are shared with them. This is a nice time to explore one’s abilities and indulge in hobbies there wasn’t time for earlier.
Congratulations on Sajal’s wedding. How has you relationship with your sister evolved after she tied the knot?
Everyone knows Sajal and I’ve always been super close, but preparing for her wedding together has strengthened our bond even further. They don’t exaggerate when they say sisters are irreplaceable. Family is everything.
“WE NEED TO BREAK THE TABOO, BECAUSE DEPRESSION IS SOMETHING ANYONE CAN EXPERIENCE AND THE CONSEQUENCES CAN BE EXTREMELY DAMAGING IF NOT DEALT WITH CAREâ€
What are the pros and cons of having a sister in the same industry as yours?
The pros are evident: you have constant, unconditional support. We comfort each other during tough times, are each other’s number one fans and cheerleaders and always have free, honest advice to offer. On the contrary, I can’t think of a single con. There is no concept of competition amongst family.
You recently posted a note on depression on Instagram. How important is it for public figures to speak about mental health and why is the topic close to your heart?
I think mental health is an important issue everyone needs to take more seriously. There needs to be more conversation centered around it, particularly by individuals of influence to create awareness amongst the masses. We need to break the taboo, because depression is something anyone can experience and the consequences can be extremely detrimental if not dealt with care.
“THIS IS A NICE TIME TO EXPLORE ONE’S ABILITIES AND INDULGE IN OBBIES THERE WASN’T TIME FOR EARLIERâ€
You’ve proved your mettle as an actress by playing a wide number of characters. What kind of roles and genres excite you most?
Characters that have the potential to leave an impact on my audience excite me the most. I try to take up different roles so I can explore and better my craft with each project. My intention is to bring something different to the table every time I perform. I’m not too fussed about playing a protagonist or antagonist, to me what’s important is that anyone watching my performance should leave with some sort of positive message. I believe engaging art forms like drama have the unique ability to shape society like no other.
Have you ever found it hard to detach from a complex/intense character?
I’m someone who gets very involved in and immersed into the roles I portray. In order to do justice to my job, it’s important for me to feel each emotion the character may be experiencing, so yes, sometimes it does get difficult to detach from a particularly intense scene.
“I BELIEVE ENGAGING ART FORMS LIKE DRAMA HAVE THE UNIQUE ABILITY TO SHAPE SOCIETY LIKE NO OTHERâ€
The fame and influence celebrities enjoy, puts immense responsibility on them to use it wisely. Do you ever feel burdened by the constant spotlight?
While the love we receive from fans is extremely heartwarming, it’s also true that being in the spotlight constantly can be taxing at times. At the end of the day, we’re as human as anyone else. From each word that comes out of our mouths, to every occurrence in our personal lives, any decision we make and even the food we eat and clothes we wear—everything is always being judged. As a celebrity it’s important to be careful about how you conduct yourself, because a small mistake can give people a false impression of who you are as a person.
Tell us about your future projects.
There are a lot of interesting projects in the pipeline, but you’ll have to wait and find out the exact details.
SHORT & SWEET
What was the last photo you took?
Of a painting I made
What was the last lie you told?
Told someone I was “on my way†while I was still in my PJs
Last impulsive buy?
Makeup
Your personal style in three words?
Trendy, stylish, minimal
“THEY DON’T EXAGGERATE WHEN THEY SAY SISTERS ARE IRREPLACEABLE. FAMILY IS EVERYTHINGâ€
A habit you have that annoys your family?
Listening to very loud music
Favourite costar?
Kinza Hashmi
Best friends within the industry?
Sadia Ghaffar, Kinza Hashmi and Rubab Ali
Theater, film or TV?Â
TV, always
Alternate career choice?Â
Painting
Favourite dialogue from a project of yours?
So hard to pick just one
Photography: Jaffer Hasan
Styling: The Emergency Room
Hair & Makeup: Adnan Ansari
Wardrobe: Siddhartha Bansal, Farah Sanjana & Ridhi Sanjana at Vesimi
A couple of weeks ago I woke up feeling I was on top of the world. Little did I know that my elation would be short-lived and that I was about to plunge into a 24-hour anxiety attack. Just as I sat down for breakfast, I opened up my emails. Saying that I had a mini heart attack after that would not be an overstatement.
Right on top of my inbox was a seemingly innocuous one sent by someone called Geoff Easton.
“I know xxxxxxxx is your password.â€
That simple phrase was enough to kill my appetite, because as it turns out, the password was one that I was using for a blogging website.
“I require your 100% attention for the coming 24 hrs, or I will make sure you that you live out of shame for the rest of your lifetime,†it continued.
I hate to admit it, but in retrospect the only shame I have is not noticing the obvious grammatical errors in the sentence and recognising it for what it was: a phishing scam (fraudulent activities aimed at gaining a person’s data). However, the email was from what seemed like a proper address (especially considering it landed in my inbox and not spam) and the password was actually in use. It was the perfect recipe for entrapment and panic.
Geoff proceeded to warn me that he had access to a lot of my data and private life, along with videos recorded using spyware that activated my camera without my knowledge—all from the past 184 days. He concluded with the threat that unsavoury details of my life would be periodically released to random recipients chosen from my contact list (of which he claimed access to), unless $2000 in bitcoin was deposited.
By this time the colour was definitely drained from my face and a cold numbness was descending on me. I did what anyone would do: rang up my best friend. When someone threatens to release your secrets, reaching out to the one person who knows you inside out is a definite source of comfort. Thankfully, he had his wits about him and immediately reverse-searched the email address, identifying it as one that’s been reported to be embroiled in phishing scams. He then listed all the irregularities with the email text and rightfully pointed out that having that much data on someone would require a lot of storage space; in conclusion, that this was likely spam and I should chuckle and toss it in the junk.
My paranoid self was definitely not satisfied. Especially, and I reiterate, due to the password being real. I immediately proceeded to change all my passwords, reviewed all the saved ones and cleaned up my social media links to apps; I set up two-factor authentication everywhere and reported the incident to the email domain, along with filing a report with the Digital Rights Foundation (DRF). However, I didn’t feel calmer until I did my own search and found out that this was just a newer form of a phishing scam that’s been in place for quite a few years. Shortly thereafter, the DRF reached out to me and assured me this was fake and I had already taken the necessary steps to protect myself. The only thing left was to delete the email and move on.
Further research showed that my password was uncovered as part of a security breach of a blogging website. My supposed blackmailer in fact had no idea what it was used for, but could only trace it back to the email associated with the blog. The threats were empty. (Although, it turns out many people did in fact click on the email links and get their actual data stolen).
Suffice it to say, I did wait with bated breath for the twenty-four hours to end. Once they did and my privacy and dignity was intact, I finally relaxed.
Ever since, I’ve been a lot more careful of the way I use the internet and how my data is protected; the ordeal was instructive for sure. Below you can find a list of ways to protect your identity, privacy and dignity while being part of the online world.
- Review passwords periodically: it’s essential to do so; make stronger passwords and use a secure password storing service in case you don’t want to type them every time. Or, write them down and keep them somewhere safe. Don’t reuse passwords and don’t be too obvious.
- Set up two-factor authentication: platforms and websites with sensitive information and email addresses should definitely have two-factor authentication. You can connect to a passcode on your phone, another email address, code generators or simply, secret questions.
- Cover up your camera: the biggest fear I had was wondering what had been recorded on my camera. Covering it up with a sticker or tape when not in use is old school, but effective.
- Install reputable virus/malware detectors: for your emails, it’s generally enough to have your junk filter set up to high, but for your computer, do some research and install software to counter such attacks.
- Don’t share info with others: this is a no-brainer.
- Report suspicious activity: always keep a check on suspicious activity logins (there are ways to set them up for various social media) and immediately report to relevant authorities. In case of cyberbullying, the DRF and the FIA are just some avenues you can approach.
- Double check privacy settings: do this for all current platforms you use, especially social media. Also ensure you review third-party app permissions associated with your social media.
- Secure websites and VPNS: always check if the website is secure. This is generally mentioned in the address bar of browsers. It’s also recommended not to open sensitive data on public wifi. If you must access it in public, use a VPN or set up your own hotspot.
- Be responsible: post online what you won’t fear coming out in a hack. Same goes for what you store in the cloud.
- Don’t be fooled: I know this is easier said than done. When I received the email, I felt as if the ground beneath me had given way. But there are easy ways to check if you’re being phished or not.
The above are just some guidelines; do your own research, be responsible and keep yourself safe. I’ll leave you with one of my favourite quotes about the digital age:
“You have zero privacy anyway. Get over it,†Scott McNealy
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 toâ€
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 concernâ€
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 itâ€
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.â€
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?Â
“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.â€
Rushna, last episode of “Ishq Tamashaâ€
(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
Stuck in a style rut? Let the experts give you a lesson in creating head-turning lawn looks. This fortnight, Saira Rizwan puts together some sumptuous looks from their Saira Rizwan Lawn 20 x Ittehad collection on the gorgeous Sanam Saeed
Wardrobe: Saira Rizwan Lawn 20 X Ittehad
Production: Centaur One
Talent: Sanam Saeed
Photography: Abdullah Haris
Hair & Makeup: Qasim Liaqat, Shoaib Khan
Jewellery: Rema Luxe, Zarq
Shoes: Shoe Planet
To say that the last two weeks have been a rollercoaster ride will be a profound understatement. Coronavirus or COVID19 has drastically changed our lives, leading us to grapple with our changed reality. While many continue to argue that the virus isn’t nearly as fatal as other diseases we’ve battled in the past (such as Ebola), it’s still being compared to the deadly Spanish Flu Outbreak of 1918. The sheer rapidity with which Corona spreads, the fact that symptoms aren’t always visible and underprepared healthcare facilities around the world are what make this novel strain a formidable foe of humanity. Before I go any further, I’d like to thank the healthcare workers who’re tirelessly fighting this pandemic. True heroes certainly don’t wear capes!
Despite working around the clock themselves, they urge the general public to assist them by simply doing one thing: staying at home. As threatening as the virus may be, all it requires are the following basic actions to reduce the spread — or at least get it to a level that’s manageable for healthcare institutions. These are:
- Social distancing: even when at home, remain at least a couple of metres apart from others; if you must go out (while abiding curfew rules), ensure you’re not in close physical proximity to anyone.
- Wash your hands: this can’t be said enough; wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially before and after eating or drinking and intermittently throughout the day. Hand sanitisers also help.
- Don’t touch your face: the virus can enter your body through your mouth and nose.
- Protection when out: masks, gloves, sanitisers and social distancing.
- Isolate: if you feel symptoms, immediately quarantine yourself and stay away from family members; contact your doctor and see if a test is required.
All of this seems rather simple; however, people have had issues adjusting. Sometimes, a disease with seemingly basic precautions isn’t taken seriously by people. But I hope that by the time you read this, we’ll have made considerable efforts to #flattenthecurve. I exhort you to go online and look up this concept. In short, social distancing is an immense help in lowering the infection rate to a point that medical professionals can respond effectively.
Those who have adhered to all protocols, especially those who had the foresight to do so on their own before governmental intervention, must now be feeling symptoms of another nuisance: cabin fever. Being cooped up in one place for extended periods of time can make anyone start questioning their sanity. Anxiety, panic, irritability, ennui and a sense of doom — all or a combination of these can start to plague your mind. Since they say, a healthy mind can cope with a lot that’s thrown its way, I’ve compiled a list of things, based on my readings of several articles over the last couple of weeks that will hopefully help make your isolation bearable. These are all the things that I’ve personally been doing since my self-imposed isolation almost three weeks ago.
- Adopt a routine: in the new normal, your routine doesn’t have to be the same. You’re most likely working from home, which saves up a lot of commute time. You also get the opportunity to work in an environment that you can create yourself. However, do stick to a schedule, even if it doesn’t match your usual one. This allows some form of normalcy to remain in your life.
- Be creative: start painting, sing songs, dance around, write — anything and everything that allows you to express yourself.
- Stay fit: make sure staying at home doesn’t stop you from physically moving. While staying in a vegetative state might be appealing, do get up and move around a bit. It could be a full-blown workout, a yoga session, or just a walk outside (social distance is a must and keep the time limited, abiding by local laws). For mental exercises, read a book!
- Feel everything: there’s no right or wrong way to feel about this situation. Most of us have never experienced such distress before (hey, at least now the world can sympathise with the plight of Kashmiris and Palestinians). Get in touch with a therapist if you can or keep a journal. Just don’t feel guilty for feeling how you feel.
- Talk: reach out to your friends over social media and plan video calls. Talk to others, talk to your family. Don’t mentally and emotionally isolate yourself.
- Stay off the internet: don’t stay on the internet for too long. It’s a depressing place — now more than usual. Get your necessary information and then stay off blogs citing the end of the world (unless you’re into that). Otherwise, avoid the negativity. Cute animal videos are fine.
This is what I’m doing, except the last one. I’ve been on Twitter and Instagram a bit too much and hoping to cut back on the negative clickbait. Everything else I’m following on a daily basis and at the time of writing, it’s really helped. Nevertheless, as I stated, there’s no right or wrong way to navigate through this. As long as work obligations are met, you’re free to figure out your own response. Sleep all day, eat whatever you want — just do all it takes to be mentally and emotionally stable during this time. I’m cognisant of the fact that this is more challenging for some than others, especially those with pre-existing mental health issues or who live in abusive households. For those free of these concerns, do check up on your friends. Together — but physically apart — we’ll get through this.
Stay safe and #washyourhands
We’ve all been entranced by her melodic voice and have fallen in love with her bubbly personality. However, this fortnight Mehek Raza Rizvi speaks to the dynamic Aima Baig to know more about her passions, her plans for the future and life outside the limelight
How do you feel about the constant comparison made between you and Ariana Grande, particularly after your look at the opening ceremony of PSL 2020?
It doesn’t faze me at all. I love Ariana Grande; she’s immensely talented and has great style, so why would I mind the comparison? I don’t take the memes too seriously (although, I have to admit, some of them are quite funny), if they make people laugh, so be it. The only part that’s sad is people refusing to see me as human. There’s nothing out of the ordinary in being inspired by others, it’s natural.
A little birdie tells us you may have an interest in acting. Can we expect to see you in a movie or drama serial soon?
Tell me more about this birdie first! I’ve been offered some great opportunities from eminent production houses, but want to focus on growing more as a musician for now—this is more “me.†However, acting is something I definitely enjoy. I’ve done a lot of theatre during my undergrad in Film and Television. You never know what the future holds.
You’ve been very involved with Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC). Tell us about your work and why you feel so close to the cause.
Shaukat Khanum’s mission is very close to my heart; I don’t consider it to be work, I do it out of choice and take it very seriously. My own mother was a cancer patient and I’ve seen her endure chemo therapies, hair loss and surgeries for six long years. I’m happy that she’s in a better place now; knowing her suffering has come to an end gives me peace, but at the same time, I’m well aware of what it feels like to lose someone special to cancer.
I can relate to families who go through this process and the feeling cannot be put in words. Shaukat Khanum helped me heal by introducing me to so many survivors, including infants. I feel privileged to be a part of this organistaion and am thankful to all its contributions.
“The only part that’s sad is people refusing to see me as human. There’s nothing out of the ordinary in being inspired by others, it’s naturalâ€
Your Father had a love for music, but was unable to pursue it professionally. Do you think that made your piqued your interest in the field?
My father had his own band in Dubai back in the day. He was definitely passionate about music, but my grandfather, a mechanical engineer himself, wanted his son to prioritise his education. He didn’t encourage his child’s musical aspirations and so, my father submitted.
I’ve witnessed my father’s talent throughout my childhood. He played different instruments and sang beautifully to me. I found him to be very inspirational and think I inherited my love for music from him. At just seven years of age, I knew I had it in me to pursue this professionally.
“I’ve been offered some great opportunities from eminent production houses, but want to focus on growing more as a musician for now—this is more ‘me’ â€
Tell us about your relationship with Shahbaz Shigri. Is marriage on the cards?
Shahbaz and I are best friends. We have shared interests; we love watching movies, hanging out with our friends and jamming together—he’s incredibly talented which makes it more fun. We’re both Pisces and vibe really well. He makes me feel very comfortable and at ease.
As for marriage, it’s something I want to think about in the future, but as of now, it’s not on the cards.
What’s Aima Baig like at home?
You need to spend a few days with me to know that. I’d like to warn you though, I have a tendency to influence people with my idleness—I do absolutely nothing when at home and you may end up doing the same!
My favourite thing to do at home is availing every opportunity I get to catch up on lost sleep. I’m constantly on the go otherwise, so feel this is the only thing lacking in my life. When I’m up though, I love spending quality time with family, jamming with my brother, watching movies, writing and playing games. I’m a gamer, that’s for sure.
“Knowing her suffering has come to an end gives me peace, but at the same time, I’m well aware of what it feels like to lose someone special to cancer†— Aima on her mother’s struggle with cancer
What are the pros and cons of having your family so involved in your work?
That’s a great question. The pros outweigh the cons. Everything’s based on trust. I can rely on family; if I’m ever feeling lazy, they remind me of the importance of hard work and how blessed. They push me to do better and keep me going. The only con is having no barriers; these are people you’ve grown up with, live with and so, they know you inside out.
Tell us about your future projects.
There are so many exciting things in the pipeline. I’m working on new songs—my own and some collaborations with other artists. This whole year is jam-packed, which overwhelms me at times, but I feel grateful.
SHORT & SWEET
What irks you most about social media?
Inconsiderate comments
Biggest pet peeve?
People munching loudly on their food or talking in a high-pitched voice.
Your biggest strengths?
My family and the people I love.
 Favourite ‘90s jam?
I was born in 1995. Music from the ‘90s reminds me of my childhood, but there’s no one particular song I can pick as a favourite.
Your personal style in three words?
Comfortable, tomboyish and casual
Last impulsive buy?
A pair of diamond rings.
Most prized possession?
My cats, especially Max.
What was the last lie you told?
I can’t really say, but there must be one.
One habit you have that annoys your family?
The fact that they barely get to see me.
Do you have a nick name?
So many: Amy, Emma, Amo and sometimes Baig. Not really a fan of these names though.
 A decision you regret?
Some songs I’ve agreed to sing. I never really wanted to, but went ahead with them anyway.
Your favourite quote from a movie?
“I’ll be back†from “The Terminatorâ€
Words: Mehek Raza Rizvi
Photography: Adil Ishaq at Guddu Shani
Hair & makeup: Mansoor Khan at Guddu Shani
Videography: Furqan Bhatti at Guddu Shani
Art Direction & production: Guddu Shani
Coordination: Murrad Rahim at Guddu Shani
Styling: Mehek Raza Rizvi & Areesha Chaudhry
Stuck in a style rut? Let the experts give you a lesson in creating head-turning spring and summer outfits. This fortnight, So Kamal puts together seven looks on Mushk Kaleem to inspire your imagination
Wardrobe : So Kamal
Photography : Alee Hassan
Hair & makeup : Fatima Nasir
Model : Mushk Kaleem
Jewelry : ZELO & Jewelicious
Featuring regal designs from Saira Shakira’s bridal couture, photographer Zahra Sarfraz captures the beautiful Tehreem Gohar in her distinctive style through her lens. Browse through our pages for this unique equestrian inspired shoot
Photography : Zahra Sarfraz at Centaur One
Model : Tehreem Gohar
Wardrobe: Saira Shakira
Makeup : Sameera Shaheen Malik
Hair : Nazia Tehmour
Coordination : Centaur One