Daily Times

How is your personality influenced by Khayam Sarhadi?

My chacha was a very well-known and well-loved actor. I unfortunately spent very little time with him but we both share the love of acting and music. My father Bilal Sarhadi was also an artist and an architect. Hence, I took up Fine arts and got an honors degree. My father’s side of the family are all in the creative fields.

Was your family supportive of your entry in showbiz? How being a niece of a powerful personality supports you or distracts you in your profession?

So, this is funny but since my first name is so unique my surname rarely came into question. I was never seen as an actor’s niece or a director’s Granddaughter. I had room to be myself and prove myself henceforth without the pressure of carrying a name forward. My entire family has been supportive of my work; we all support each other In whatever we choose to do. They are truly my rocks.

‘I try to choose characters which I haven’t played before. I love a challenge where I can explore my abilities and to get out of my comfort zone. Since I have been lucky to have dabbled with a myriad of different roles, all there is left for me is the desire to play an action heroine or a super hero’

How was your experience of movie industry? Will you do any other movie in future?

Movies are a whole different high. Characters are far more defined and larger than life. I have two films currently in the pipeline. Thoroughly excited about them. Can’t wait to go on set and commence work!

What type of roles you prefer?

I try to choose characters which I haven’t played before. I love a challenge where I can explore my abilities and to get out of my comfort zone. Since I have been lucky to have dabbled with a myriad of different roles, all there is left for me is the desire to play an action heroine or a super hero.

How do you feel about fans’ interaction on social media?

I absolutely adore it. It is unreal sometimes to see yourself through the eyes of others. We are blessed in our profession to be loved and hated. Regardless of the emotion the whole idea that I matter to so many people are humbling. I love showing my gratitude on the socials by interacting with them.

Tell us about your family?

I am total family person. The most important people in my life are my mum, my daughter, my husband, my sister and my husband’s parents. We are all very close and have stood by each other through thick and thin. I am truly blessed to have such a strong bond and support system.

Has Pakistani drama become monotonous and lack story and creativity?

To some extent yes. I guess the quantity of productions has gone up and the quality is being stretched. We do get the occasional out of the box script but mostly channels and productions houses work on things which pose less of a risk. Meaning already tried and tested story lines. Hence, we get repeated kahanis and the same characters over and over again.

Any suggestions you have to reduce violence against women in our society?

Women need to change their perception of self. It is entirely my opinion so just bear with me when I say that women let the physical abuse carry on for as long as it does as they feel they deserve it. As soon as they start having a developing greater sense self-worth they would stand up and put a stop to it. If not, alone then collectively this atrocity could lessen. Insecurities weaken not just the spirit but also physical strength.

Please give message for your fans.

I will only say that hard work and persistence conquers all. If you have a dream then work towards it there are no shortcuts in life. Just believe in yourself and set out to achieve how you want your life to be. Best of luck with your journey.

The writer is a freelance journalist. He can be reached at kzk1972@gmail.com and Tweets at @KhurramZiaKhan