US TALK
What does success mean to you?
There is no yardstick to measure success. If I am happy and content, it means I am successful.
Something you learned early in your career which helped you become a better actor?
I learnt that it is the hard work and consistency that matters the most to maintain a strong foothold in the industry.
What is the most challenging thing about this career?
Getting out of your personality to portray different roles, and dealing with different situations.
Did you get any formal education for this career? If not, how did you learn the craft of acting?
No, I didn’t get any formal education, but I have seen life in all its manifestations and that’s how I learnt about playing different characters. I also think that seniors are the real institution: their guidance and advice are essential tools of learning for me.
From all your roles so far, which role was the most meaningful to you, and why?
My role in serial GT Road was very challenging. At that time, I was a newbie and working with legends in the industry, like Aijaz Aslam, Kashif Mehmood, Asma Abbas was in no way an easy thing. But, thanks to Almighty, I met the expectations of my director and handled the role effortlessly.
Do you believe good looks and connections are the only things that make a star?
I believe both elements hugely contribute and make things easy to jump-start your career, but you have to prove that you are more than a good face with the quality of your work to maintain your star status .
How has social media changed things for you?
In this digital age, thanks to social media, information flows much faster than we can imagine. Now, our fans can easily see what their favourite artists are up to. So, it’s good that you get instant feedback from your fans and that helps you improve yourself and also motivates you.
How do you deal with self-doubt?
Alhamdolilah, my faith in Allah is very strong and it helps me deal with my self-doubts. I give my hundred percent and leave the rest to Allah.
Advice for aspiring actors.
Have faith in Allah and believe in yourself.
The best thing about being a teenager
You don’t have to worry about anything
The worst thing about being a teenager was
Had to listen to everybody
My favourite actor
Faisal Qureshi
My favourite singers
Bryan Adams and Kumar Sanu
My favourite superhero
Superman
My favourite movie
Jab We Met
My favourite book
Quotable Quotes
My closet was full of
Dresses
My favourite subject was
Maths
My least favourite subject was
Chemistry
I couldn’t stand
Hypocrites and liars
My favourite places
Thailand, Hunza and Muzaffarabd
My favourite sports
Badminton and basketball
Five things I couldn’t live without
Family, friends, positivity, values and passion
Coordination: Ehsan Iqbal