Daily Times

Zara Noor Abbas has taken the entertainment world by storm with revered television roles. It is her mission to stay afloat and continue to rise and shine. Haider Rifaat met the famed actor to dig deep.

Describe your best self in three words.

Honest

Super sensitive/emotional

Giving

How sneaky were you as a child?

Not very! My mother was my best friend. Whatever I wanted to do, I involved her in my plans and both of us made fun happen.

Is it a scuffle being confident and in the moment throughout the day belonging to such a demanding profession?

Yes of course – sometimes it is overwhelming but I cry and let it all out.

How does acting fit in with your career goals?

This is my profession so it fits perfectly well. I have no other career options as of now.

Which character are you recognised for the most?

Arsala from ‘Khamoshi’.

If your acting suffers in one of the drama scenes, how do you bounce back?

I would rethink why it happened and would make sure that I read the script again to understand my character arc.

What would you be if you were not an actor today?

I would be nothing else and be very sad too!

What new projects are in development?

There are two new films and a drama in progress. They are all different from each other.

I was ready (for marriage) when I met Asad and realised that our life principals and ideology were the same for the future

What was a turning point in your life?

When my mother was diagnosed with cancer. Everything changed for me.

If you are caught in any trouble, who would you rely on for help?

My mother – she has my back.

When do you think a person is ready for marriage?

It is a person-to-person thing. I was ready when I met Asad and realised that our life principals and ideology were the same for the future.

Are you still in the process of discovering yourself?

Absolutely – I discover something new about myself everyday.

How do you set an example for others?

By being honest to myself and about myself to others. I believe I need to be honest in life if I want people to be honest about themselves.

How do you combat negative energy around you?

I try to coop myself in a room, listen to music and tell myself that it is all a moment. It will go away as soon as I decide to let it go.

What encourages you in life?

To be the best version of myself.

Are friendships real?

If it is a true friendship, it will always be real.

A characteristic that gets your ready attention?

Humor immediately catches my attention.

Published in Daily Times, February 9^th 2019.