This week You! gets candid with the versatile actor Aijaz Aslam to find out his likes and dislikes…
you & me
An actor celebrated for his versatility, charisma, and consistency, Aijaz Aslam began his career as a model and now is one of the popular actors in the Pakistani industry. Whether it be dramas or films, he is everywhere. With a career spanning for over two decades now, he is not only a household name in Pakistan but has earned a dedicated fan base locally and internationally. This week gets candid with him to find out about his likes and dislikes…
What do you like most about your job?
I’m very passionate about my work and it’s a blessing when your passion becomes your profession. I get to play different characters, and learn different personalities and characteristics of people. I do my research and try to be as authentic as possible as I believe acting is an incredibly powerful medium of entertainment. It requires creativity, dedication and understanding of the human nature, which I have been fortunate enough to do as a career.
You’re one of the most-experienced artists in our industry, what is one thing you have learnt?
I began acting in 1994, which is almost a 30-year long career, I have learnt to always be grateful and if you sign-up for a project or start something, then give your 100 per cent. Even if you become disinterested for whatever reason, give it your best. This is why I learn something new from every project I do.
Your claim to fame project:
My first project ‘Kashkol’, which is also one character that felt like myself.
Your favourite work?
My drama ‘Cheekh’.
What is the longest project you have done?
‘Kis Din Mera Viyah Howay Ga’, it was 4 seasons long.
What is one project that you regret not doing?
I have no regrets; I accept whatever comes my way and find contentment in it. I am thankful for all the opportunities I have, as well as those I don’t.
What is the toughest character you have done?
A digital short film called ‘Future Imperfect’ on YouTube. There was a huge learning curve but I loved it.
A project that you hold really close to your heart:
‘Log Kya Kahenge’. I learnt so much, especially how important it is to take care of your loved ones in their moment of weakness. I was so involved and attached to that character while I was shooting that I felt the pain of that man going through his hard times.
Your life’s theme song?
‘Jhoom’ from Coke Studio.
Among your friends you are known as…
Researcher and advisor (laughs).
Your ultimate desire...
I love being an entrepreneur aside from acting and I love travelling.
Happiness is...
Enjoying the simple moments of life with my loved ones.
Your idea of romance…
Spontaneous adventures and thoughtful surprises.
The biggest misconception about you...
The biggest misconception about me is that I’m on a strict diet 24/7. On the contrary, I never diet. I just eat at the right time.
Your most irritating habit:
I think too much before making any decision. I like to do my research and be safe.
One thing you like best about yourself:
I work hard, as hard as I can and I am an optimist and a believer.
You don’t like people who are...
Liars.
You always feel happy in the company of...
My immediate family and old friends.
Your most valuable possession:
My dad’s belongings, they are the most valuable possessions I have.
Which one is your favourite genre in music?
Classical.
Your all-time favourite movies:
Not any one in particular, I enjoy all sorts of movies.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Homemade brownies and muffins, basically any and all baked goods, especially if they’re homemade.
When feeling low you prefer:
Working out always boosts my mood or watching a movie is always something that cheers me up.
You are crazy about…
Bikes and cars.
How do you like to spend your Sundays?
Resting and cooking, and a lot of people don’t know this about me but I am a decent cook, and I love developing my own recipes.
What bores you the most?
I hate long flights alone.
Your favourite hangout:
Anywhere with my friends. I am an extremely social person.
What do you usually wear in daily life?
Plain old T-shirt and jeans.
Your favourite designers:
No favourites, I just pick what I like and what I’m comfortable in.
Your favourite international actor:
Russell Crowe.
Who’s your biggest inspiration:
My dad.
Who’s your bestie in the industry?
Faysal Qureshi and Adnan Siddiqui.
If you were stranded on an island, what are the things you’d want with you?
Water, fruits and some books.
If you could have your pick of anyone in the entire world, which director would you like to work with?
Steven Spielberg.
What would you change about Lollywood, if you could?
The name Lollywood, itself.
If you weren’t an actor today, what would you have been?
A Pilot!
What’s next on your bucket list?
That’s a secret, ha-ha.
What would be your advice to the budding actors of today?
Stay persistent and believe in yourself.
