We speak to the actor about his upcoming work,his bucket list and more

Did you always want to be an actor?

It happened out of the blue. As a fresh graduate of theatre, film and television (TFT) from BNU I jumped into work as a line producer under HUM TV initially. I mostly prioritized working behind the camera but Alhamdulillah for where life has brought me now.

Out of all your projects, which one is your favorite?

For me, my favorite project is always what’s coming next and anything that is in the making under my attention. So currently that would be a feature film called Money Bag Guaranteed, The legend of Maula Jatt, a comedy feature film Shortcut and Jindo a drama serial.

What do you like to do on days when you’re off from work?

Those are my favorite days of the year. I love being lazy when I can. I like to practice the extrovert side of my personality too. I like to go watch a movie or go out with my friends. I love chilling with Barfi. I’m a go with the flow kind of person.

Do you think that there is a stigma attached with working in the entertainment industry? If yes, how do you deal with it?

I do agree that there is a stigma attached to the entertainment industry. However, things are changing now due to the way the new breed of actors are conducting themselves. However, I do feel that this stigma stems out of the roots of the hypocritical nature of our society. It’s ironic that people don’t want to associate themselves with you but at the same time, they’re striving to get a selfie with you. I believe they’re ignorant because they don’t realize how much hard work goes into it. I personally don’t pay heed to such opinions because of where I stand in my career and life right now.

Name three things on your bucket list.

1. Performing Umrah or Hajj.
2. I’m really trying to start to praying five times a day. I really do aspire to be able to do that.
3. I’m trying to be a good human being.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I don’t know. I didn’t expect 5 years ago that I’d be just where I am right now. So only God knows the future. I think I’m merely happy where I am right now. I am trying to live this moment to the fullest.

There is a major cancel culture these days. Do you ever feel the pressure of that getting to you in terms of what you say or what you post?

I love this quote from Charlie Chaplin that says: you do not need power to bring in the world, but love instead. So I believe the power to cancel someone is something I discourage. The culture can be a very powerful way to manipulate and mis-use any situation.
I think empathy, tolerance and patience are the emotions that should trend. I certainly don’t feel threatened by it. I don’t seek validation through my posts. Which is why I don’t really post that much, I just talk about the stuff I feel strongly about.

How important do you think social media is in today’s world for an artist?

I hate the misuse of social media. I surely support the notion that it is very important for an artist today to project your work. If used wisely, I think it’s a great tool. Otherwise it’s not really important for an artist.

What’s the best thing about being on set?

It’s an entirely different world. I would say it’s ability to help you disconnect with reality cause we all love to fantasize and dream.

Who is your favorite director?

For dramas my favorite directors are Anjum Shehzad, Badar Mahmood and Haseeb Hassan. My favorite film directors are Bilal Lashari, Nadeem Baig and Faysal Qureshi.

Favorite Pakistani actors?

Oh there are so many! Sania Saeed, Nauman Ijaz, Samiya Mumtaz, saleem Miraj, Late Mr. Moin Akhtar Sahab, Ahmed Ali Akbar specially in Parizaad, Hania Amir along with Kubra Khan, Yumna Zaidi & Iqra Aziz to name a few.

What advice would you give to young people who want to be actors but might be struggling to get their big break?

My advice would be to believe in themselves. Be persistent, have faith only in Allah. This is the key. There are no other. Don’t go for anything else except these.