Your fans want to know more about who Ahsan Khan is. How would you describe your early life?
I was born in London, United Kingdom. As many people know, I completed my schooling while I was there. I moved to Pakistan with my family when I was 10 or 11 years old and spent most of my time in Lahore. I began my initial stint as an actor for television when I was 17 years old. Eventually, I got a chance to work in Syed Noor and Sangeeta’s films when I was young. Back then; I was excited to work in film and television as it marked the beginning of my acting career. However, the projects were not well received so I went back to London for three years and did not work pro tem. I came back to Pakistan after a gap period to earnestly pursue television.
With success comes failure as well. How do you cope with rejection in the entertainment business?
I joined Pakistan’s entertainment industry when I was very young. I was vulnerable and had no clue or sense of direction. As people, we end up doing things, which are considered mistakes for our careers, if you know what I mean. I had to put up with all this in the beginning as well. That said, I was confused whether to continue acting or not; but I knew that performing arts was my career path and I was determined to make a name for myself.
How would you define your sense of style?
I am a very casual person and do not follow anybody as such. At the same time, I like to be up to date with the latest trends. I would define my sense of style as casual fashion wear.
You are all set to star in the upcoming Pakistani comedy-thriller film titled ‘Chupan Chupai’. Describe the premise of the film and your character profile?
‘Chupan Chupai’ is a comedy that satirizes the horrid themes of urban life with the aim of highlighting our real problems through humour, comedy and glamour to a decidedly sorted issue. I would like to appreciate the hard work of many newbie actors who took part in the film and gave it their all. I want you all to support them as well! The film’s execution is brilliant from what I have seen so far. The debutante actors have done some outstanding work which many experienced actors couldn’t pull off. I play an average guy who aspires to achieve great things but ends up making blunders. ‘Chupan Chupai’ is not merely a comedy flick. It uses satire and effective punch lines to convey important messages to the audiences. Although the dialogues are pretty serious, they are expressed satirically.
Films aside, you are currently working on an upcoming drama titled ‘Aangan’. What details can you share about the project?
I am currently shooting for ‘Aangan’ and haven’t signed any other plays as yet. The period drama is beautifully shot and is artistic in its narration. Ehtesham, the mastermind behind the camerawork, is a great director in my opinion. The project is an MD production and the storyline is fascinating. The drama is written by Mustafa Afridi and is based on Khadija Mastoor’s novel. ‘Aangan’ does not revolve around an average stereotypical ‘mother and daughter in law’ drama; it is truly a work of art, so to say.
Aside from ‘Chupan Chupai’ and ‘Aangan’, what other projects are you working on for the year 2018?
I am almost done shooting for the film ‘Rehbra’ alongside Ayesha Omar and will start working on a new film and another drama project. I will talk about them once I start shooting. I would also like to say that I am incredibly blessed that I have been approached for some great future offers and projects. Despite this accomplishment, I have decided to work less intentionally as I enjoy acting in projects one at a time.
Are there any international films or television projects you are planning to be a part of?
I did a theatre play in London at Saddler’s Wells this year and it was a great experience. I have been offered a few international projects but let’s see what the future has in store! Currently, I am not working on anything except a few projects. So far, I am enjoying whatever I have accomplished in my native country.
How is playing an antagonist in a drama different from playing a protagonist? What things do you keep in mind in preparing yourself for both roles?
Being an actor, I like to experiment with different characters. Given my personality, I have been offered roles that are mainstream. I chose to play a negative character this time around in ‘Udaari’ and it made a significant impact in Pakistan. It is difficult to play a negative role, as you have to envision the character profile of the individual you are trying to portray. As an actor, I am not mentally prepared for any role. I read the script several times and things start transpiring thereon. I learn the psychology of the character, the way he or she is supposed to walk, talk and behave. I believe it is important to know the background of a character and accordingly act him out.
Published in Daily Times, December 3rd 2017.