Daily Times

Last year, Sana Javed received acclaim for starring in the enormous hit Khaani, playing the lead character. As the drama concludes its run on TV next week, I spoke to Sana about life beyond Khaani, reminiscing her memorable journey and her upcoming gigs.

Tell me about yourself in detail. Who is Sana Javed?

Honestly, I am a very sensitive person in real life, very caring and always supportive towards my loved ones. My family is my weakness and strength, and I love them to bits. They are my supporters for life. It is always heart over head for me. I am extremely passionate about my work and this industry has  made me very strong. On a lighter note though, I love shopping (smiles).

Was ‘Khaani’ your breakthrough role?

Khaani has been my most special role but my breakthrough role was as Lubna from Pyaaray Afzal. Even then, the amount of appreciation I received with Khaani has been immense.

The actor says her character has set an example for young girls to stand up for their rights and make choices that they believe in

How has the drama motivated the youngsters of Pakistan?

Khaani, being my most special character until now has gained so much love from the audience that it is actually unbelievable. I think girls of today can mostly relate to it because the show proved that they can’t be suppressed.

What message did ‘Khaani’ convey to the audience?

There is not one but many messages the drama highlighted. Whether it is about motivating young girls to believe in their rights or be fearless of powerful entities, it has taught a lot through television. It conveys to the audience that no matter what are you going through, life goes on. You can make it worth living if you are hopeful for a better future. Once you watch the last episode, you will come to realise how strong the message is.

What have you learned from your co-star Feroze Khan?

The entire team of Khaani was phenomenal to work with. From the director, producers and costars, everyone was very helpful. It was such a peaceful shoot. Feroze is also an amazing costar. We would rehearse our scenes sometimes and give tips to each other. It naturally translates onscreen when the costars are comfortable working with each other. It is one of the reasons why people have loved our drama so much.

Share the most embarrassing or memorable moment on the set of ‘Khaani’.

There is no one particular moment that I can share but our complete shoot was quite overwhelming. We were like a family together as we laughed, ate and shared stories with each other. It has been a fun shoot. I was practically eating, breathing and living Khaani’s character. The shoot was very emotionally challenging because I was actually loving the character.

What would you like to say about your dedicated supporters who have embarked on this journey with you?

I can’t put into words how much love has come my way with Khaani. I am overwhelmed! The fans have loved the show and literally made it what it is and I thank them for making it such a huge success. They have made Khaani such an iconic character.

My character has set an example for young girls to stand up for their rights and make choices that they believe in. Many people have messaged me saying how this character has inspired them to be strong and hopeful. It is just amazing! It puts across a message that no one can bring you down unless you let them.

What are you working on right now?

My next project is exactly the opposite of Khaani and I am very excited to get its feedback. I am once again collaborating with this team and my favorite director Anjum Shahzad. It is a 7th Sky Production and I star opposite Feroze Khan. The script is very well written and I can assure you that the audience is in for a treat with Romeo Weds Heer! The other project is a play. It centers on a headstrong girl but I can only reveal more with time.

Which is your preferred medium, film or television?

For me, it is television right now and I love working in a drama. Of course, films are great but only if a right script comes your way. I think our television is far ahead for its time with great quality of work being done, so it won’t be a good step for an actor to just work in films.

Who would you like to share the screen with in the coming years?

I have worked with almost everyone but I believe the role matters the most. I don’t go by who is in the project and who is not. As long as I am confident about my character, the costar can be anyone.

Do you try to diversify your television character from yourself as much as possible?

I like to play a character I believe in and can relate to. I am a very strong and confident person myself so I try to portray those traits in my roles.

What kind of television roles are you planning to do in the future?

I make a conscious decision to do something that I haven’t already done onscreen, be it Lubna from Pyaaray Afzal or Mohini from Goya or Mahnoor from Zara Yaad Kar or even Khaani for that matter. Such roles have been so different from each other. I have decided to not play a girl who bears torture in our society. I believe that our girls are the strongest in Pakistan so I will never portray them in a negative light.

What is your go to casual style?

It is very minimal; something I am comfortable in.

How would you define success?

A blessing!

A fashion trend you dislike the most?

Gharara pants.

What is your favorite music genre?

All the genres! I love music.

Do you believe in horoscopes and astrology?

Not at all.

Published in Daily Times, July 2^nd 2018.