Daily Times

Photo credits: FUSE

Following ‘Churails’ enormous success and some controversy that came with it, Sarwat Gilani is now destined to push boundaries for creative storytelling.

In an exclusive interview, Sarwat discusses the short-term ban on Churails, the possibility of Churails season 2 and what more our entertainment industry should do.

With the release of Churails, the bar has been raised even higher for Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Will we now see you do even more select projects?

I have always been very selective with the projects I have chosen. For me, it is extremely important that we are leaving a positive impression and teaching people good values through our work. The reason why you don’t see me much is because I don’t agree with half of the stories that are being told. I would like to be a part of projects that elevate our mindsets and not exalt the values of our young youth.

Do you feel that the backlash Churails received recently was justified based on the language used?

The backlash was not because of the language but because there was a lot of truth in the web series; truths we don’t want to face, accept and acknowledge because it requires a lot of courage. We live in a society of hypocrites where real issues are not addressed but the creative voices are strangled because they are throwing light on the ugly truths of the society that many people are uncomfortable to face. In a country where the law and order is only for the weak and meek, it is not surprising that people would rather have a backlash on inappropriate language rather than raising their voices for serious issues.

‘The backlash was not because of the language but because there was a lot of truth in the web series; truths we don’t want to face, accept and acknowledge because it requires a lot of courage. We live in a society of hypocrites where real issues are not addressed but the creative voices are strangled because they are throwing light on the ugly truths of the society that many people are uncomfortable to face. In a country where the law and order is only for the weak and meek, it is not surprising that people would rather have a backlash on inappropriate language rather than raising their voices for serious issues’

Can we expect a season two of Churails?

Absolutely but can’t say much about it yet.

What is the future of Pakistan’s drama industry? Do you see us making a transitional shift to web?

Pakistan needs web portals to compete with the global market. That can only happen if we stop cutting and pulling each other down and instead become one as an industry in order to turn our entertainment industry into a revenue generating industry.

Moving on, what are your views on the state of women’s rights in Pakistan?

Our law books have many women’s rights written in them but hardly any are followed for their protection. There may be many such laws that are present but there is hardly any awareness about them that could help women fight for their rights.

There are laws that may have been set to create safety and security for our women but because of the cultural stigmas, they are hardly practiced by the society. Enforcement of women’s rights makes a country look and sound civil but a nation that doesn’t practice them is as good as the laws of the jungle! At least the animal kingdom still has rules that are not written but always followed.

What is your idea of empowerment?

My idea of empowerment is to first stand up for myself and then for those who are weak around me. Elevate and help them embrace themselves so we can all reach our goals while raising our own bars collectively.

What does feminism mean to you?

Generally people think feminism has everything to do with women while actually I feel that real men who aren’t afraid or confused, play an important part in uplifting women. They are also an integral part of the movement and should be appreciated for their support.

How would you describe a modern day woman?

A woman who believes she can do anything, keeping in view her values and grace.

Who is your dream co-star?

An intelligent co-actor who is neither a victim of complex nor is insecure.

Whose craft as an artist do you admire the most?

Someone who gives the actor all the space they need to perform.

Describe your spouse Fahad Mirza in one word.

Complete

What is your favorite pastime?

Spending time with my kids while doing arts and crafts or sharing the magic of reading story books.

How do you like to spend time when you are off duty?

I like to spend time at a good spa and then obviously spend creative time with myself or my family.

What keeps you grounded?

My family values.

A meal you can eat all day, every day?

Biryani and sushi

Your bag of choice?

A bag full of humor!

What sums up your personal style?

Less is more.

A fashion no-no, according to you?

An uncomfortable style statement.

What has shaped you?

Time, experience and wisdom.

Who would play you in a biopic?

Will need to do a few auditions for that one!

The writer is a model and an actor. He can be reached at haiderrifaat95@gmail.com and Tweets at @HaiderRifaat