Saturday, 5 December 2009

Javed Shaikh

Javed Sheikh: One man’s story
By Anis Shakur




Javed Shaikh & Ghazala Kaifi in Shama


The streets between M.A. Jinnah Road, and Waheed Murad Road, Karachi,
were once popularly known as Plaza quarters or plaza. A very pious, and
straightforward person, Sheikh Rehmat Ali, resided in the above neighborhood
in the 1960s. Sheikh Rehmat Ali had absolutely nothing to do with Show
business. Hence, no one in his right frame of mind could have imagined even
in his dreams, that his children would one day become celebrated Pakistani
film actors. Therefore, the public was amazed when his eldest son, Javed
Sheikh, who was smitten by acting at a tender age, was cast as a child star
in the film ‘Insaan badalta hai’, in 1961. Though perspicuous observers had
noticed the hidden talents of this promising kid at the time. From 1968
onwards, Javed Sheikh frequented stage shows and Radio Pakistan programs.
Perhaps, it was then, that the seeds of an artistic revolution were sown.
Javed Sheikh debuted as lead actor in director Qamar Zaidi’s film ‘Dhamaka’,
opposite Shabnam in 1974. Bad luck, ‘Dhamaka’ did not succeed and Javed
Sheikh vanished from the movie scene for nine years, until 1983. Courageous,
as he was, Javed Sheikh did not lose heart. Instead, he joined hands with
Pakistani television and appeared both in television plays and commercials.
Probably the experience that leaves the deepest and most indelible
impression is the super hit television drama serial, ‘Shama’. Javed sheikh
and Ghazala Tabassum, who later came to be known as Ghazala Kaifi, played
the lead romantic roles in ‘Shama’. ‘Shama’ is one of the most consistently
popular drama series in Pakistani television history. Javed Sheikh also
played a key role alongside Shafi Mohammad and Ruhi Banu, in the television
drama, ‘Kala Daira’. Additionally, he played the character of Amir in
Pakistani television drama serial, ‘Chandni Raatain’. Javed Sheikh, who is
full of life and vigor, attained maturity and professional recognition
rapidly. As mentioned earlier, he re-appeared in films in 1983 and worked
opposite Shabnam in director Nazar Shabab’s golden jubilee film ‘Kabhi
alwida na kehna’.

As
time passed, he became a household name and a media darling. With that said,
let us glance at three movies of Javed Sheikh: Director, Zafar Shabab’s
golden jubilee film ‘Shadi magar Aadhi’, 1984, in which Javed Sheikh-
Shabnam played the lead roles. Director Zafar Shabab’s golden jubilee film
‘Teray ghar kay Saamnay’, 1984, cast included Javed Sheikh- Shabnam.
Director Nazar Shabab’s golden jubilee film ‘Bobby’, 1984, starring, Javed
Sheikh- Mohammad Ali- Sabeeta. In ‘Bobby’, Javed Sheikh appeared with
Mohammad Ali for the first time. Winners visualize the rewards of success.
As for Javed sheikh, his true- life story is an instance of human excellence
and personal success. What is unique about the three movies below is that
their stories are so profound: Director Waheeda Khan’s golden jubilee film
‘Kiraye kay gorillay’, 1984, cast included Javed Sheikh- Laila. Director
Shamim Ara’s platinum jubilee film ‘Miss Colombo’, 1984. Director K.
Khursheed’s film ‘Benazir Qurbani’, 1985, stars included Javed Sheikh-
Shabnam. Javed Sheikh confirms through his hard work that he is more than
just the sum of his characters—not that we ever really doubted that. His
versatility is reflected in the three movies below: Director Pervez Malik’s
film ‘Halchal’, 1985, starring, Javed Sheikh- Nazaan Saanchee- Shabana.
Director Jan Mohammad Jaman’s film ‘Honk Kong kay sholay’, 1985, cast
included Javed Sheikh- Barbara Sharif. Director Sangeeta’s film ‘Jeenay
naheen doon gee’, 1985, stars included Javed Sheikh- Sangeeta.

Javed
Sheikh, who loses himself in his profession, is all praise for the Nigar
film magazine. According to him, he has been perusing it since 1960.
Moreover, he maintains that the founder of Nigar Awards, the late Ilyas
Rashidi, was his mentor and an incessant source of inspiration throughout
his life. Below are six movies, whose stories managed to evoke interest in
cine-goers: Director Nazar Shabab’s film ‘Nadia’, 1985, Javed Sheikh-
Sabeeta played the lead characters. Director Hasan Askari’s film ‘Hum aur
tum’, 1985, cast included Javed Sheikh- Salma Agha. Director Altaf Husain’s
Punjabi film ‘Mehendi’, 1985, first Punjabi film of Javed Sheikh, stars
included Javed Sheikh- Anjuman. Director Pervez Malik’s film ‘Zanjeer’,
1986, starring, Javed Sheikh- Nazaan Saanchee. Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s
film ‘Hum aik hain’, 1986, cast included Javed Sheikh- Salma Agha. Director
Mohammad Javed Fazil’s film ‘Faisala’, 1986. As a result of his focused
concentration, Javed Sheikh became a successful actor. His story illustrates
that there is no limit to where your dreams can take you. The transporting
power of love and gentility were magnificently captured in the three movies
below: Director Hasnain’s movie ‘Aik he raasta’, 1986. Director Sharif
Nayyar’s movie ‘Jhoomar chore’, 1986. Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s movie,
‘Damoro intiqaam’, Pushto, stars, Javed Sheikh- Salma Agha. As the years
passed he kept working in movies. He divorced his wife, Zeenat Manghi, in
order to marry Salma Agha. Too bad, his marriage to Salma Agha could not
thrive and it resulted in their separation. Later, he fell in love with
actress Neeli and both of them used to appear together in public gatherings.
In times due course, cracks appeared in Javed Sheikh and Neeli’s
relationship as well. However, Javed Sheikh’s most successful movies were
the ones in which he was paired off with Salma Agha and Neeli. His true
caliber is evident in the seven movies below: Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s film
‘Rangeelay jasoos’, starring Javed Sheikh- Neeli Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s
film ‘Zakhmi aurat’, cast included Javed Sheikh- Nadira. Director Iqbal
Kashmiri’s film, ‘Raja’, stars included Javed Sheikh- Nadira. Director Iqbal
Kashmiri’s film ‘Bakhtawar’, starring Javed Sheikh- Neeli. Director Iqbal
Kashmiri’s film ‘Haseeno ki Baraat’, cast included Javed Sheikh- Saima
Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s film ‘Sheida tali’, in which Javed Sheikh teamed
up with Neeli. Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s film ‘Saat khoon ma’af’, in which
Javed Sheikh worked opposite Neeli. He worked zealously to keep the viewer
engaged in the romantic story. A man of many projects, Javed Sheikh was also
behind movies like the three below: Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s film ‘Yaad
gaar’, stars included Javed Sheikh- Neeli. Director Iqbal Kashmiri’s Punjabi
film ‘Naghra gori da.’ Director M.A. Rasheed’s film ‘Khoon da qarz’ in which
Javed Sheikh paired off with Neeli. After thirty years Javed Sheikh is still
one of the most cherished artists in Pakistani entertainment. The scripts of
his film are so cleverly conceptualized one finds him self simply admiring
the formula. His role in the three films below is worth applauding: Director
M.A. Rasheed’s film ‘Panah’, starring, Javed Sheikh- Nadeem- Sahiba.
Director M.A. Rasheed’s film ‘Qatiloan kay qatil’ stars included Javed
Sheikh- Salma Agha. Director Haider Chaudhry’s film ‘Paani’, starring, Javed
Sheikh- Kavita. The credit goes to the salutary Javed Sheikh to have acted
in films that gripped the heart of moviegoers. Excellence of his tremendous
acting potential, are quite conspicuous in the six movies below: Director
Haider Chaudry’s film, ‘Nangi talwaar’, in which Javed Sheikh teamed up with
Gori. Director Haider Chaudry’s film ‘Hoshiyaar’ in which Javed Sheikh
paired off with Kavita. Director Nazar-ul-Islam Dada’s film ‘Kalay chore’
starring, Javed Sheikh- Neeli. Director Nazar-ul-Islam Dada’s film ‘Nargis’
stars included Javed Sheikh- Madiha Shah. Director Jan Mohammad Jaman’s film
‘Mohabbat kay saudagar’ cast included Javed Sheikh- Neeli. Director Aslam
Daar’s film ‘Daagh’ stars included Javed Sheikh- Salma Agha. His movie
personality, fluency and flexibility made him one of the most sought-after
actors, in the 1980s and the 1990s. The three movies below are bodacious and
therefore worth watching: Director Nazar Shabab’s movie ‘Aik say barh kar
aik’ with Salma Agha. Director Nazar Shabab’s movie, ‘Tufani bijliyaan’ with
Neeli. Director Hasnain’s movie, ‘Allah Shehanshah’ with Neeli. So far,
Javed Sheikh has made his presence felt in one hundred plus movies. He
continues to influence his adorers through his performance. Below are three
movies, which were his crowning achievement: Director Hasnain’s film
‘Farishta’ with Saima. Director Altaf Husain’s film ‘Baarish’ with Barbara
Sharif. Director Altaf Husain’s film ‘Jhutay Raees’ with Reema. In reality,
it was the team -work of a dedicated movie crew, which made his films a huge
success. Virtual inclusion of finer feelings played a decisive role in the
success of the three films below: Director Altaf Husain’s film ‘Hum naheen
ya tum naheen’, with Neeli. Director Syed Noor’s film ‘Jeewa’ with Resham.
Director Syed Noor’s film ‘Uqaboan ka nasheman.’ Moviegoers have been
watching him for a while. He became etched in their minds in the three films
below: Director Sangeeta’s film ‘Sahab bibi aur tawaif.’ Director Iqbal
Kashmiri’s film ‘Mohallat’. Director Javed Fazil’s film ‘Aag he Aag.’ Javed
Sheikh did a series of outstanding movies and his popularity continued to
grow. He also showed a knack for tapping into the moods of the times with
movies such as the three below: Director Javed Fazil’s movie ‘Ustadoan ka
ustaad.’ Director Nazar-ul-Islam Dada’s movie ‘Madam Bawry.’ Director Pervez
Malik’s movie ‘Ghareboan ka Badshah.’ His superb voice, good looks and
impressive style in films appealed to the masses. The vibrancy of his
profound presentation in the three films below brought laurels from
everywhere: Director Zafar Shabab’s film ‘Saas meri saheli.’ Director
Jamshed Naqui’s film ‘Hum say na takrana.’ Director Zahid Shah’s film
‘Choroan ka dushman.’ Nowadays, Javed Sheikh has become the defining voice
for quality films and excellence in movie production. An adept actor, he
worked in the three films below with confidence and ease: Director Shahid
Rana’s film ‘Lahori Badmash.’ Director Zahoor Husain Geelani’s film ‘Badmash
thug.’ Director Masood Butt’s film ‘Khuda gawah.’

Pakistani
cinema’s hero, Javed Sheikh, is a man, whose characters in movies express
his aspiration toward taste and sophistication. Below are three examples:
Director Javed Fazil’s film ‘Zamana.’ Director Mumtaz Ali Khan’s film ‘Ilaqa
ghair.’ Director Javed Fazil’s film ‘Mala kharo’, Sindhi version of the
Punjabi film ‘Akhara.’ Having attained his ambition as an actor, Javed
Sheikh moved on to another realm, direction. He was really tuned into the
rhythm of this particular genre—direction. All through these times, his
admirers knew that Javed Sheikh is more than an actor. A director, producer,
and a famous television artist, he has put his stamp on several movies and
television plays in his remarkable career that still flourishes to this day.
Below are six movies, which were directed by Javed Sheikh: The hit films ‘Mushkil’,
‘Chief Sahab’, ‘Yes Boss’, ‘Kaheen pyar na ho jaye’, ‘Mujhay jeenay do.’ In
the film ‘Ye dil Aap ka hua’, the cast includes Saleem Sheikh- Moammar- Sana.
The movie is based on the grand theme of love. Most recently, Javed Sheikh
was directing the film ‘Khulay Aasmaan kay neechay.’ He has filled his
movies with characters, which have become Pakistani entertainment icons. His
entire life is filled with challenges. Javed Sheikh’s younger brother,
Saleem Sheikh, occasionally appears in the Pakistani films and television as
an artist. Further, Behroze Sabswari is the brother-in-law of Javed Sheikh.
Javed Sheikh’s most telling accomplishment are reflected in the six movies
below, which earned him the Nigar Award: Javed Sheikh won the Nigar Award
for best actor in the film ‘Ghareboan ka Badshah’ in 1988. Javed Sheikh won
the Nigar Award for best actor in the film ‘Baarish’ in 1989. Javed Sheikh
won the Nigar Award for best actor in the film ‘Ustadoan ka ustaad’ in 1990.
Javed Sheikh won the Nigar Award for best actor in the film ‘Kalay chore’ in
1991. Javed Sheikh won the Nigar Award for best actor in the film ‘Zamana’
in 1993. Javed Sheikh won the Nigar Award for best actor in the film
‘Mushkil’ in 1995. Javed Sheikh is amongst a few artists to take bold steps
to promote Pakistan’s image abroad. His admirers have always been, are, and
hopefully will be, praying for his success.


Some popular Drama serials of Javed
Sheikh


Ankahi

Chaandni Raatain

Doosri Aurat

Shama

Jaisey Jantey Nahin

Khuab Toot Jatay Hain

Kuch Dil Ne Kaha

Tum Kahan Hum Kahan




Imran Abbas

Imran Abbas is an Urdu poet?
Now
that’s interesting. On Oct 18, actor Imran Abbas was on a late-nite show on
PTV hosted by poet and playwright Wasi Shah. The show is called Raat Gaye
and usually has a man of letters, along with a singer, as guest.

Seeing
Imran Abbas there took many people by surprise, particularly when they came
to know that the actor tries his hand at Urdu poetry. He had brought pieces
of paper on the programme on which ghazals and nazms by known verse-wielders
and himself were scribbled. He narrated them, albeit in a rush smothering
some of the words, on the show. Some of his own poems were not bad, and had
the metrical balance that’s a prerequisite for poetry.

Imran triggered the debate that actors in Pakistan nowadays don’t like to
read, which is why their efforts lack poignancy while acting (or something
to that effect). Actress Saina Saeed also joined the show by phoning in,
agreeing with Imran Abbas that since some of the stars acquire popularity at
an early stage of their career without having a book-reading background,
they don’t deem it fit to study literature to hone their skills.

Now the query that springs to mind like a Ghalib’s couplet: if Imran
Abbas is into literature and stuff, what has he so far been doing on TV?
Which one of his plays indicated that he’s a literature buff? It’s only when
he appeared alongside Wasi Shah that we came to know the actor’s fondness
for poetry.





Imran Abbas is the hottest Model in Pakistan, and also acts in plays in
pakistan and also in India. He thinks that he has transitioned at the right
time from the Model industry to Drama in acting .
His first shoot of
Khawar Riaz took him to fame and popularity within a short span of period.

He plans to finish his drama and TV Serial at the earliest and he wants
to pursue Career in Architecture. He has planned to go to abroad to pursue
the degree. He wants to leave Karachi to Islamabad.

About his upcoming projects are Haider Imam Rizvi opposite with Indian
actress Dia Mirza, Faheem Burney with some Indian co-stars. He also
completed Haseena Moina tere Aajane se and a serial Kinara.





Commercials/Advertisment campaigns:

Coca Cola.

Nestle Polo.

Lipton Tea.

Candyland sweets.

Head & Shoulders Shampoo (Twice).

Safeguard Soap by Procter & Gamble.

Sprite.

Express Detergent by Colgate Palmolive.

Rose Petal Tissues.

Milkon Sweets.

Mobilink.

Shezan All Pure Juices.

Brook Bond’s Supreme Tea.

Tv Plays & Drama Serials

1-Jaanat : Serial by Sultana Siddiquie on PTV

2-Umrao Jaan Ada : Serial by Rana Sheikh on Geo

3-Shayad K Bahaar Aye :Serial by Rana Sheikh on PTV

4-Jaisay Chaho Jeo : Serial by Nadeem Baig (Under completion)

5-Bin tere kya hai jeena : Serial by Rashid Sami on PTV

6-Kho Na Jayain : Serial directed by Roomi Insha on Indus and Hum

7-Us Paar : Telefilm directed by Maqbool on Geo

8-Ambulance : Serial directed by Angeline Malik Indus

9-Mera Naam Hai Muhabbat (Akailay Na jana): Serial directed by Laila Wasti
on Indus

10-Mera Naam Hia muhabbat (Tere Koochay main) : Seial directed by Kashif
Jaffery on Indus

11-Ye Rishta Kya kehlaye ga : Telefilm directed by Fahim Burney on ARY

12-Qismat ke sitaray :Play directed by Sultana Siddiquie PTV World

13-Love Story (Keh do na) : Play directed by Irum Binte Shahid on Geo

14-Love Story (Kuchh kehna hai) : Play directed by Maqbool on Geo

16-Love Story (Jaisay jantay nahi) : Play directed by Maqbool on Geo

17-Fazaon main bastiyan :Play written by Anwar Maqsood (under completion)

18-Love Story (Merry Christmas) : Play directed by Fahim Burney on Geo

19-Love Story (Ye Jo Muhabbat hai) : Play directed by Mac on Geo

20-Love Story (Dhoondoon ab tujh ko kahan) : Play directed by Aliya Imam on
Geo

21-Love Marriage : Serial directed by Rana Rizwan on Hum tv

22-Jo Baat gher main hai : Soap written by Asghar Nadeem Syed on Geo

23-Love Story (Raani ya Nokraani) : Play directed by Shakeel on Geo

24-Tum kahan hum Kahan (Sprite’s telefilm) : Telefilm directed by Azfar Ali
on Indus/Hum

25-Kehta hai Dil:Play directed by Imran Hussain,aired on Geo

26-Akhri Mulaqaat (Tareek Saye) : Play directed by Hasham Syed on Indus

27-Sada Suhagan (Serial) : Serial directed by Fahim Burney, will be aired
soon

28-Chahat Main Kya Duniya Dari (Serial) : Serial directed by Fahim Burney,
will be aired soon

29-Aap jaisa Koi (Serial) : Serial directed by Nadeem Baig on Hum

30-Oh ye kya hogaya : Play directed by Atif Hussain on ARY

31-Milan : Play directed by Atif Hussain

32-2004 A love story : Play directed by Haroon Rasheed

33-Mystery Theatre (Khwaab) : Play directed by Mehroz Kareem on Hum

34-Andaleeb (Telefilm) : Telefilm directed by Abuzar on Aaj Tv

35-Eid Ka jora : Play directed by Asim Ali on Geo

36-Koi Lahma Gulab Ho : Soap directed by Asim Ali/Babar on Hum

37-Tumhe yaad ho ke na yaad ho : Telefilm Directed by Qaiser Nizamani on ARY

38-Main Hoon : Telefilm directed by Owais Khan on Geo

39-Wo ayain gher main humaray : Play directed by Atif Hussain on PTV

40-Sun Lay Na : Serial directed by Ahsan Ali Zaidi

41-Diya : Play directed by Ahmad Kamran, will be aired soon

42-Farishta : Play directed by Ahsan Talish on Aaj TV

43-Dheere Dheere : Telefilm directed by Yasir Nawaz on Geo

44-Kinara : Serial directed by Amjad Ali for TV One

45-Taqdeer : A play directed by Mazhar Moeen for ARY

46-Pyar Nahi Milta : Telefilm written and directed by Mehmood Akhtar for Geo

47-Do Pal : A Play directed by Babar Sheikh for Hum Tv





Feature Film

1. Reward & Punishment (underproduction): An international film made in UAE
directed by Shakir Khan produced by M.A.Films UAE.

Humayun Saeed

Humayun Saeed: Master of his dream
By Anis Shakur


Never before in modern Pakistani entertainment
had one man risen so high so fast.


Within a short period of time, he became the awe and envy of the
Pakistani public.


Below is an amiable look back at the life and accomplishments of Humayun Saeed.






Humayun was born into an enlightened family on July 27, 1971, in Karachi. Being
the eldest amongst five brothers, his parents expected a lot from him.

As a child, he had a craze for movies. His favorite past time was to stand in
front of a mirror and to fantasize being a film actor.

Though initially he seemed an ordinary kid, his zeal for acting set him apart
from other children.

Such focused determination took that boy where he wanted to go-to the top.

In times due course, he successfully completed a bachelor of commerce degree.

Humayun stepped into the practical life as a production manager in a garment
factory in Karachi. He stayed there from 1991- 1995.

By sheer determination, he drove himself forward.

As mentioned earlier, Humayun demonstrated an unusual aptitude for show business
from his earlier days.

From 1995 onwards, he associated himself with Pakistani television. First he
appeared as an artist in numerous television plays and drama serials.

Later, he started his own production, known as H.S. Production.

Side by side, Humayun also participated in modeling and fashion designing.
Additionally, he also made his presence felt in the ‘Dalda’ advertisement.

If he has spared anything, then it must be imaginative enough to venture beyond
his expertise. That scenario is highly unlikely. Considering Humayun’s enormous
acting potential, brilliance and a very high I.Q.

A novice in television, Humayun was eager to learn and quickly mastered the
techniques.

The first television play in which Humayun worked as an artist, was ‘Ye Jahan’.

He was famous for his looks, his etiquette and above all, for his impressive
voice.

The masterpieces began to flow, as they would over several years. He received
another boost in public awareness from more plays like ‘Farz Aik Qarz’, ‘Lahu
say kar kay wuzu’ and ‘Waqt’.

Some of his television plays are an epic story of ordinary people trying to make
it against all odds.

Humayun is as good as his word.

He was teamed up with Sania Saeed, Perveen Malik, Ghazala Butt and others, in
the play, ‘Shayad Kay Bahar Aaye’. Producer, Sultana Siddiqui, director, Rana
Sheikh.

Humayun is not just an artist, He is an event.

Who else can give us so much pleasure now and hopefully for years to come?

He brings out all his emotions in plays like, ‘Ghazi Shaheed’, ‘Aaj’ and ‘Zeher’.

Presumably, the carrot that keeps him motivated is the glory of performance.

Inching his way to stardom was like scaling a mountain to Humayun.

The public has seen him in numerous television plays. Each of them is a new
inspiration for his adoring fans.

Humayun, who now enjoys an exceptionally huge devoted following, gave a superb
performance in the plays, ‘Ye Zindigi’, ‘Bund Darwazay’ and ‘Unhoni’.

His loyal following grew so fervent in the recent past that his video and or
DVD’s became almost like a most sought after item.

Humayun has successfully experimented with hundreds of television plays. Below
are three such success stories:

‘Jang’, ‘Janay Unjanay’, ‘Peela Jora’.


If
aficionados of Pakistani entertainment have any thing to say about Humayun, this
is what it is: ‘You have our eternal gratitude for delivering such profound
lessons in such easy ways’.

Below are three such lessons:

‘Kheil kheil mein’, ‘Doosri duniya’ and Ye ghari hai Milan kee.’

Undoubtedly, Humayun mania is for real. Debonair Humayun, who is six feet tall,
is married to Samina.

He unleashed his power to succeed and came up with magnificent performances in
the plays below:

‘Zindigi badalti hai’, ‘Kabhi kabhi pyar mein’, ‘The castle-Ik Umeed.’

With the passage of time, he learned much about friendship, teamwork and most of
all, about himself.

Moreover, no statistics could measure the fame he achieved in the recent past.
It increases with every passing day.

Smitten, Humayun finds himself pulled toward production. From ‘Humayun Saeed
Production’, he has produced the serial, ‘Tum he to ho.’

Further, from ‘H.S. Production, Humayun has also produced long plays like ‘Pehli
Khahish’, ‘Adhuray Khawab’, ‘Dil wo bay mehar’ and ‘Undekhi’.

He is a great talker with a reputation for wit. Through his plays, Humayun has
had a tremendous effect across Pakistani social landscape, as well.

There was a cluster of distinctively Pakistani works, such as drama serial, ‘Jab
jab dil milay’. Its location shooting was done in Malaysia.

Likewise, the drama serial, ‘Chahatain’, was also shot in Malaysia. ‘Chahatain’,
executive producer, Samina (wife of Humayun Saeed) cast includes Humayun Saeed,
Uzma Gilani, Vaneeza Ahmed, Atiqa Odho.

As the times have changed, so has Pakistani show business.

As for Humayun’s work, his acting just keeps getting better. He brought his
valuable experience to the play ‘Unjanay raastay.’


The
cast includes Humayun Saeed, Tazeen Husain, and Shafi Mohammad. Penned by Zeb
Sindhi, director, Misbah Khalid.

Humayun also had an important role, which he played with dramatic effect, in the
long play, ‘Farar’ with Mehreen Jabbar.

His portrayal of a cancer patient in the drama serial ‘Mehendi’ is unparalleled.

He is a fabulous actor-there is such vitality and imagery in his work.

By 2002, he was the most sought after artist of Pakistani television.

Consequently, directors and producers are in his debt.

In a recent interview, he spoke about his life. ‘People want me in the
television plays’, he says, ‘and that is a lot to live up to.’

His personal flair, his love of music, dance and parties. His favorite dish is
biryani and favorite color is black.

Humayun, at 32 years of age, has achieved so much name, fame and experience,
that it is hard to believe.

To read about his exciting life is like watching a good movie that we did not
want to end.

Humayun made his name in movies, as well. He debuted in the film ‘Inteha’, in
which he was dubbed as an abusive husband.

He played the role of a prostitute in the film ‘No paisa no problem’.

The television and movie artists who inspired Humayun include, Talat Husain,
Shabbir Jan, Shafi Mohammad, Rahat Kazmi, Nadeem and Waheed Murad.


Humayun
was judged best actor for his performance in the television play ‘Ab tum ja
saktay ho’, in 1996, for ‘The television Performance Awards.

He was judged best actor for his performance in the television - film ‘Zeher’ in
1996.

He was judged best actor for his roles in the plays, ‘Sawal’, ‘Umeed-e-Sehr’ and
‘Kankgan’.

He was judged best actor for his performance in the film ‘Inteha’ and he
received ‘The Television Times Viewer’s Choice Award’.

In the year 2003, his competency and artistic skills are awesome and only
improving.

Apart from his acting skills, Humayun possess a vast business experience in
garments.

Hence, Humayun and his brother, Aamir, opened men’s boutique at Zamzama
boulevard and an outlet at Tariq Road.

In Humayun, Pakistanis have received a gift even greater than other gifts, which
one could have offered them.

For Humayun and the likes of him, have only strengthened and renewed this
country’s culture.

With their success has come a powerful affirmation-that the human spirit can
never be extinguished.


Some popular Drama serials of Humayun Saeed






  1. Aangan Bhar Chandni

  2. Dil Kay Afsanay

  3. Dil Kay Afsanay

  4. Jaisey Jantey Nahin

  5. Koi Tou Baarish

  6. Riyasat

  7. Socha Na Tha

  8. Aashti

  9. Ana

  10. Aur Zindagi Badalti Hai

  11. Chaahatain

  12. Chaandni Raatain

  13. Dhoop Mein Sawan

  14. Dhuwan

  15. Doosri Aurat

  16. Hum Se Juda Na Hona

  17. Ishq Junoon Deewangi

  18. Jab Jab Dil Miley

  19. Mehndi

  20. Meri Adhoori Mohabbat

  21. Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Be Nishan

  22. Shayad Kay Bahaar Aaye

  23. Tere Ishq mein

  24. Tum Kahan Hum Kahan

  25. Woh Rishtey Woh Naatay

  26. Yaad Tu Aayen Gey


7th Sky entertainment


Seventh Sky has a core management team that believes in leading from the
front. Abdullah Kadwani and Humayun Saeed, who are acknowledged and acclaimed
wizards in their own right, lead the company. Under their aegis, Seventh Sky
Entertainment has been able to carve a niche from the onset, for each one of the
two, at the core of their workings have an enviable list of accolades.

Together this dream team is responsible for all aspects of execution, starting
from planning to casting to production management at Seventh Sky. Their
expertise help them effectively manage and look after business, marketing and
strategic planning of Seventh Sky projects to create successful projects each
time.




Faisal Qureshi

Interview by Behjat Tahir

Faisal Qureshi is a TV producer, director,
and actor, best known for his comedy series “Ulta Seedha” - a collection of
satire and parodies on a wide range of current topics.

Faisal’s on-screen talent is only rivaled by
his behind the scenes imagination, which he is using to bring TV audiences many
enjoyable and memorable programs. He is a graduate of the National College of
Arts, and is fully applying his creative education to many different avenues,
including designing.

In an exclusive Rendezvous with The Saturday
Post’s correspondent, Behjat Tahir, Faisal shows us what it is like to take life
seriously and lightly, all at the same time.


Let’s see if you can tell where he’s joking
and where he’s being dead serious…enjoy the interview!


1. Let’s start with getting to know you – tell
us a bit about where you grew up and your family…


My parents accidentally left me in the Amazon Jungle on a safari trip
whereafter I was brought up by mama bear and baba bear. I found my way to
civilization (or lack thereof) somewhere in the late 17th century…the animal
instincts still haven’t left me! Well, on a serious note (if you really want to
know), I was born in Hyderabad, attended public school, am the youngest of six
siblings, and therefore the most spoilt and pampered in the family!


2. How did you get into acting?


ACCIDENTALLY!!!! It was a bad stormy night, very dark and chilly with not a
person or animal in sight. I was walking merrily down to the karyana store when
suddenly this huge truck hit me out of nowhere. When I came to, I was in a
permanent state of amnesia. That fatal accident changed my life forever and the
audience’s too! National College of Arts was my first step towards acting though
personally I never wanted to act. Started out as a writer and concept-maker and
still enjoy being behind the scenes more!


3. What factors have played an important role in
making you a star?


Nothing much - couple of fractures, one broken leg and a bump to the head.
Waisay, thanks for calling ME a STAR…sounds cool (laughs).


4. How has being married changed you as an actor
and as a person?


Tremendously! My dramatic (acting) skills have improved with each passing day
after getting married.


5. What are your inspirations? What motivates
you as an actor, writer, director, and all the different roles you play?


Food is my biggest motivation and, you can say, inspiration too! When we
don’t have food to eat at home, it makes me act and work really hard. As a
writer, I like touching upon serious issues but with satire; as an actor my
motivation begins when no one else shows up at the last second for my shoots and
I jump in as a last resort to fill up the slot!





6. What are some of the good and bad experiences
you’d like to share with our readers?


I guess going to NCA was a great experience…I made good friends for life. And
the bad experience is that I got married to one!


7. Acting , writing , producing, designing….out
of all these which one do you prefer more and why?


Cooking…because the end result is worth it and more fulfilling!


8. What do you think of Pakistani media in
general ?


No idea! My commitments with Hollywood leave no time for me to look at our
own media…but I’ve heard that Pakistani media is growing very fast which I think
is good (for the media not for the audience!) It still has a long way to go and
if I’m around longer then maybe there’s hope for it to reach Hollywood
standards!


9. How do you compare Pakistani talent with
other countries?


Aaahhh, Pakistani talent…you find the best and most efficient thugs and
muggers here…none can beat their talent all over the world! Oh, you mean the
likes of Meera and all? What can I say! Such talent is hard to find even in our
own country let alone the rest of the world!!! “No one can beat just one” like
the famous ad jingle goes…


10. What do you think about Pakistani talent
going to India?


All I know is that India is a nice place to visit and my friends tell me that
partying away from home has its own charms…if you know what I mean! Crossing the
borders is now much cheaper thanks to our Khan Coaches and Bus Service, which is
way easier on the pockets of our poor actors and singers!





11. If you were not in media, what profession
would you have chosen?


Ummmm…if not an actor I would have been a politician then because there I
could have used my acting skills properly!


12. Tell us about your future projects. What are
you planning to contribute to the Pakistani media next?


Two minor projects are in the making. They will Insha Allah become major
projects. Whether these projects will enter media, I don’t know. They are my
twin daughters! Rather minor projects, 4 pounds each, but soon they will be big.
That is my contribution, not to the media of Pakistan, but to the population of
Pakistan.


Fahad Mustafa

Fahad Mustafa
Date
Of Birth: 26th of June

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

My Schooling: Aitchison Model School

Marital Status: Married

Favourite Colour: Black White

Favourite Food: Anything My Wife Cooks

Siblings: Three, two brothers and one sister

Favourite Movie: Hera Pheri, Jab We Met

Favourite Drama Serial: LaHasil

Favourite Character: Veena (Veena), Shaeed (Ashti), Pasha (Tair-e-Lahuti),
Bhola

Favourite Fragnance: Burberry Weekend, Silver Shadow Davidoff





Wife’s Name: Sana Fahad

Date of Marraige: 26th of December 2006





Fahad Mustafa is a happily married person very much workaholic and
at the same time family oriented. Loves to spend time at home with his wife.
Well thats my life work and family.






All things happen for a good reason and when Fahad Mustafa could not become a dentist, he stumbled into acting. After being grilled by veteran producer Iqbal Ansari as a debutant, surviving the hostile attitude of his seniors and his first role with zero lines; in a span of just six years Fahad Mustafa has bagged key roles in two dozen serials, shone in title roles and now at age 26 runs his own production company.

Son of Sindhi character actor Salahuddin Tunio, this second generation actor had a legacy to carry forward and has done so with aplomb. With his looks and talent, Fahad has enough grit to give Bollywood actors Rahul Bose, Kunal Khemu, Sonu Sood and even Abhishek Bachchan a run for their money.

Aashti, Tair-i-Lahoti, Veena, Najiah, Thori Dur Saath Chalo, Thora Saath Chaliye, Malika, Yeh Zindagi Hai, Tum Jo Mile, Lahaasil, Wajood-i-laraib, Karwatein and Andata are some of his memorable serials, but Fahad feels he still has a long way to go. “I won’t say that I have a tremendous amount of work because itna kaam nahin hai. Fortunately, whatever I have done has gotten noticed. When my lot came in that is Mikaal, Imran Abbas and me; we used to think that the more senior ones would fade away in a few years but they didn’t, so at least one thing is clear that they are not dying we are not dying, and that is a good thing.”

Farad’s first break was Sheeshay ka Mahal, a serial written by Nur ul Huda Shah, “The serial was a flop but my work was noticed. Nur Apa wasn’t too happy with me and preferred Mikaal who was conventionally good looking. Since I was studying and travelled in buses and also played cricket all day, I was tanned and didn’t look my best when she met me. But she approved when I auditioned for her. Maya Khan, Samina Peerzada and Maria Wasti were also in the cast and all three auditioned me. Since the role required crying; I cried in front of all of them. That serial didn’t go on air for a whole year due to some problems in the channel.”

For about 17 or 18 episodes in Sheeshay ka Mahal, Fahad had no lines at all. “Nur Apa had no faith in me. I just listened to other characters talk and nodded my head. I would get Rs2,000 per day and fortunately the shoots were slow so I made enough money to buy a car. After doing 20 episodes without uttering a single line, I finally gathered the courage to ask Nur apa for dialogues. She said ‘You don’t need lines because you are doing a lot even without speaking’.” Fahad took it as a compliment then.

“Then when Nur apa decided to write a soap for me, I overheard Samina Peerzada say ‘Yeh kal ka larka ab iss pe soap likha jayega’? Her comment came as a shock but later things changed, we worked together and when I met Samina apa she suggested we should work together. I think nobody has the right to judge anyone without giving them a chance to work.”

Fahad has a message for senior actors. “I cannot be compared to Talat Husain to Sajid Hasan. It would be pointless for someone in their position to be insecure about a junior actor like me. Even people who haven’t seen them work know who they are. I salute the energy of Qazi Wajid Sahib who says that his talent has not been tapped yet and there is a lot more potential in him yet. People are not tired of seeing him because he is not tired of himself yet. He is wonderful person to work with.”

At 25, Fahad became a producer and he talks like a seasoned actor in his 50s, “Maturity has nothing to do with age. In the last five years I have learnt a lot, met all sorts of people and now I seem to understand people a whole lot better.”

Boring scripts ultimately pushed him towards production, “When you see actors appearing with the same kind of look repeatedly and audiences get bored of their faces, it is not the actor’s fault at all as scripts are not written with juicy characters to give any leverage to actors.”

Fahad is producing two serials currently, “My production team has young people with big dreams. I use my own ideas and stories, my wife writes the plays. We wanted to do something for the Hum Tele Film Festival but I don’t agree with the concept of tele films. To me they happen when a frustrated director can’t get a film, is unable to make a play and ends up making a film for the mini screen. It is like mixing two mediums. If you want to make a film, then make a film.”

Fahad feels that people who don’t have opportunities here run to India. “When people go and work in India, they come back as misfits. At the end of the day we have to work with people here. When our actors experience Bollywood, they are not good enough to work there and the system here is no longer good enough for them. Even our worst actors are way better than Indian TV actors who are very professional but totally dependent on the director. We as actors have sharpened to the fact that jo bhi karna hai hum ne khud hi karna hai. I worked with Rati Agnihotri and she has done 700 films. Either they are really smart and pretend in front of us or else they are so robotic that they have everything fed to them by the director.”

Fahad prefers character roles to simple chocolate leads. “When I don’t have money I will look for anything. We can’t always choose but mostly I want something on the edge, something different every time. Veena was Atif Husain’s brainchild with a guest appearance by Fahad Mustafa who developed it into the title role. “In 20 episodes I had only 45 scenes because I thought the lesser I appear the more digestible I will be with the audiences. I also thought that as a main track people won’t like it.”

Veena was shot in interior Sindh at a mazar and to play a eunuch and dance in front of all those people was not easy for me.” Wasn’t playing a eunuch bad for his image? “What is my image? The mini screen is too small to have an image. I still meet women who think that I am a lowlife like Pasha in reality. A lot of people think I am Bhola and they ask me why I left the serial. I ask them what do they like about Bhola but they don’t have an answer.”

For him, Aashti was his filthiest role and also the best experience of his career. “I was so into my role of Shaheedul Islam that even after I went home I would be talking in Bangla undertones. I love being an actor because I’m constantly switching characters.”

Accused of only working with certain type of directors, Fahad believes in working with a good team. “The directors I work with have middle class characters so they are called B-class directors. Why are people so class and appearance conscious? Except for Javeria, most of the girls are so hung on how they look that they don’t focus on the role. People talk about A-class and B-class roles that we do as actors, but this is complete rubbish. Thanks to people like Mehreen and Atif Husain who portray middle class people, we have substance in out TV content. Imran Abbas is very good looking and so is Mikaal. But to be cast in a role not based on your acting abilities but because of your good looks is not fair. As a producer I have learnt that acting or no acting, actors have market value because of the way they look, and there is nothing you can do about that. Faisal Qureshi and I are the only two actors who will happy doing old roles in future.”

People say that the Pakistan film industry will eventually revive but it is not about to happen according to him, “Even if we make a good film, they will release 10 good films. All our films are compared with Bollywood fare, so do our films have a chance? Maybe if they put Bollywood films in Cineplexes and our films on mainstream cinemas at least we will be able to take out revenues.

“Nadeem Mandviwalla lined up three films with Manmohan Shetty and I was to go meet them in Dubai but that same day the blasts at Mumbai Taj took place. That day I realised that India is not meant for us. Like Humayun Saeed says ‘Go and work there if you get a chance but don’t stop working here, these are your roots’.”

Mastana Mahi is an upcoming project that Fahad is excited about these days, “The shoots have not started yet but I am reading the script which is based on Bilawal Zardari’s life.


Behroz Sabzwari

Behroz Sabzwari
Behroze
Sabzwari, is a Pakistani Film / Television actor. He was born in Karachi,
Pakistan in 1957.

Behroze began his career from Radio Pakistan as Radio
presenter, In the late 1970s he start his acting career as a child artist in
“Live” television kids play Dada jan Nana jan. He won popularity with a TV
play Khuda Ki Basti, in 1974 with his role Nausha.

He performs serious and comic roles with equal ease. Among his successful TV
serial is Tanhaiyaan, It was Qabacha that endeared him to many households.
Also did good acting in “Mera Naam Mangoo” (Drama serial about professional
beggars).








Behorze has appeared in a number of television commercials. He has also
done many stage plays, including Mirza Ghalib Bandar Road Par. Mirza Ghalib
Bandar Road Par was the famous play of Khawaja Moinuddin. As a matter of
fact this play was the earliest of Behroz plays and introduced him to the TV
viewers throughout Pakistan in early seventies.

He was married to Javaid Sheikh’s sister Safeena and living happily ever
after. Behroz has been with Pakistan TV for the last 26 years.





Behroz as Qabacha with Marina Khan





Behroz as Nausha with Qazi Wajid





Behroz with Mehmood Ali in MGBRP


Behroze is a son of Dr. Sabzwari, his father was a Naval officer. He got
married to Safeena in 1986 and has two children. His son Sheroze Sabzwari,
is follows his footstep and acted in several sitcoms and television plays.
Besides acting, Behroze Sabzwari owns a car showroom on Tariq Road in
Karachi.




Behroz Sabzwari in Movie Chief Saab


Some famous Tv Plays & Serials


* Khuda Ki Basti

* Professor

* Tanhaiyaan

* Ankahi

* Mera Naam Hai Mangoo

* Mandi

* Uljhan

* Gharana Fasana

* Yeh Zindagi Hai

* Koi Tou Baarish

* Socha Na Tha

* Aik Graduate Ki Long Story Short Main

* Baray Baray Dahi Baray

* Pasoori

* Hastey Bastey

* Mirza Ghalib Bunder Road Per

* Aania

* Maamta

* Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai

* Zra si aurat

* Brahim Ki Talash

* Footpath ki Ghaas

* Kachwa aur Khargosh

* Nana Jan Dada Jan





Films


* Ittefaq

* Dil Waley

* Palkon Ki Chahaon

* Naseeb

* Halchal

* Chief Saab

* Mushkil

* Ek Aur Love Story

* Khulay Asman Ke Niche

* Traffik

* Tere Ghar Ke Samnay

* Khush-naseeb






An Interview with Behroz Sabzwari

There are certain actors for whom the television has played the
part of an institution. Behroz Sabzwari is one of them. Having started
acting from a very young age, he was groomed and polished by the seasoned
actors with whom he worked.


His association with television dates back to November 1967 when his
first play, Nana Jan Dada Jan was made. He has fond memories of the drama
that was telecast live. “I remember I forgot the dialogues that I was to
deliver, however, the senior actors covered it up somehow,” he says with a
chuckle. Neither was he scolded for this, nor was his blunder noticed by the
audience. In fact being very young, he was always encouraged and supported
by the people around him.


“I wasn’t aware of the fact that I can act, but all I can remember is
that I could mimic people very well,” he reveals.


On being questioned about why he is mostly seen in the comic roles,
Sabzwari says that an actor has to do whatever work he is offered. “However,
I did act in plays in which I played a negative role or serious ones such as
Khuda ki Basti and Uljhan,” he tries to clarify.





Behroz in Brahim ki Talash





Behroz in Uljhan


The character he played in the serial Mandi is his favourite one as he
considers it one of the most satisfying works he has ever done. It gave him
the opportunity to portray a person who undergoes various changes as he
grows from a young lad to an old man. But this is not all, Kachwa aur
Khargosh, Mera Naam Mungoo and Ankahi are also some of his memorable works.


Sabzwari disapproves of the unprofessional attitude of the newcomers in
showbiz these days. And what bothers him the most is their unpunctuality.


The credit of Behroz’s most popular performance, in the role of Kabacha
in Tanhaiyan, goes to his craze for watching movies. “Shahzad Khalil told me
that the character I had to play in the serial was penned by the Haseena
Moin,” he recalls. Sabzwari realised that he had to put in his best to stand
out in the play which also had other notable artists. The director asked him
to watch as many movies starring Peter Sellers as he could get hold of, for
the roles the Hollywood actor played in his movies had a lot in common with
the character in Tanhaiyan.


Sabzwari says that he is a Marlon Brando, Anthony Hopkins and Robert De
Niro buff. He is also appreciative of the acting of Dustin Hoffman and tries
to watch all the movies of these actors to observe the finer points of their
art.





Behroze Sabzwari, Bushra Ansari, Rubina Ashraf,
Safina Behroz with Groom Ali Haider & Bride Sabika


Among the younger lot, he likes Nicholas Cage.
However, the actor confesses that he admires the work done by the senior
actresses and has too many favourites to name just one.



The genre of movies that Behroz enjoys the most is romance. “I like
love stories and at times thrillers too, it all depends upon my mood,” he
opines. The actor clarifies that by romantic movies he doesn’t necessarily
mean a-girl-meets-a-boy story, but movies that touch one’s heart and soul,
have an emotional feel to it.


Behroz Sabzwari blames the atmosphere of the cinema halls as well as the
standards of movies that are made in Pakistan for the audience’s lack of
interest in the silver screen. He doesn’t like to watch films in the local
cinema halls but whenever he goes abroad, he makes it a point to watch a
movie in the cinema.





Behroz in Mirza Ghalib Bunder Road Per


He likes music of all sorts, and is
particularly fond of semi-classical. Like many people these days, taking
time out to listen to music is difficult for this actor.


“I don’t have much time to listen to music nowadays, but I still cherish
songs by Mehdi Hasan, Adnan Sami and Shafqat Amanat Ali,” he reveals. Nusrat
Fateh Ali Khan is a singer whom he admires the most. He likes the late
mastero for his versatility as well as his voice and choice of lyrics.
However, when it comes to the younger generation of singers, Behroze has
little to say about them as he feels that few have come up with any
remarkable music to be remembered by. Among the English singers, he admires
Shirley Bassey, but over all he is not too passionate about Western music.


Sabzwari laments that he doesn’t have time to read books anymore. The one
book that he believes is beyond comparison with any other book on earth is
the Holy Quran. Apart from that, he loves to read poetry. That is probably
why he has a collection of works by Parveen Shakir and Nasir Kazmi.


He admits openly that he is not much into reading and therefore wouldn’t
name books in order to show off.


Favourite Movie: The Godfather

Favourite book: Nasir Kazmi’s Devan

Favourite music: Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan






Behroz Sabzwari with wife Safina in Nadia Khan
Show





Behroz in Brunch with Bushra



Aijaz Aslam

Aijaz Aslam: Beyond Roshoo By
Anis Shakur

“The beauty of man”, states an old Arab
proverb, “lies in the eloquence of his tongue”.

The
above mentioned maxim holds true to fashion designer-cum-artist, Aijaz Aslam. He
spells his first name with double “z”, which is also his trade- mark.

Born to a middle class family 37 years ago on October 3, he proved to be a
bright student in his school days.


His father made occasional appearances in Pakistani television plays, when
Pakistan television was in its infancy.


What distinguished Aijaz from other kids was his aptitude for showbiz and
modeling.


Subsequently, he successfully completed a fashion- designing course in
London.

In 1989, he stepped into the world of modeling and achieved name and fame beyond
his wildest expectations.


In 1993, Aijaz debuted from Karachi television station’s super hit drama
serial, “Kashkol”, which changed his life forever.


Renowned writer, Hameed Kashmiri, top of the line director, Nusrat Shaheen,
artist of the highest repute, Talat Husain and the likes of him, made “Kashkol”
one of the greatest drama serials in the annals of Pakistan television.


Most of all, it was Aijaz (super smartly dubbed as “Rosho”) who did the
trick.


The sad gaze in his eyes, the indescribable pathos in his voice and the
loneliness and despair, which he carried through out the series, made him one of
the most astonishing performers ever to grace Pakistan television.


In reality, he looked like the reincarnation of fugitive-famed, David
Janssen.

“Roshoo”, an embodiment of innocence, relives a nightmare as another dream
disintegrates.


His intense, charismatic performance in his most memorable role in “Kashkol”,
vaulted him to super stardom.


“Roshoo” became his identity as well.


Aijaz helped usher I what has been called the second golden age of TV drama.


All exhilarating, all wonderful, “Kashkol”, a reality written script, is a
must-see!


But Aijaz is more than an actor. He is the topmost fashion designer and an
innovator.


A decade ago, Aijaz embarked upon the fashion design business in a very
humble manner and with meager resources. He started his business with one
machine.


Today, numerous workers earn a respectable livelihood in his stitching units.

An unobtrusively brilliant man, Aijaz designs everything from A to Z.


His mastery in fashion design created waves in Pakistan and across its
borders.

What he does best is design real fashion for real people and let the spotlight
shine on them.


“I have always delighted most in my work as a fashion designer”. Aijaz said
with confidence.


His specialty is men’s wear. Additionally, he is in charge of two
manufacturing units.




Aijaz’s
true genius is to design and create items, which are widely used by artists, who
work in Pakistan television drama serials and in other related entertainment
industry.


No fashion show or advertisement is considered complete without Aijaz’a
presence.


He became the defining voice for quality fashion products.


His manufactured items, like boxer shorts, are very popular. He achieved
excellence in sherwani’s, too.


His products exemplifies in boutiques at different locations, including his
signature boutique in Clifton.


Passion for innovation, Aijaz says, fueled his ambitious new plan-to create
his own brand of shoe.


A perfectionist, Aijaz’s high expectations influenced more than just those
who worked under his umbrella. He profoundly affected the nation.


Despite his extremely hectic business schedule, he never side- tracked his
television career.


His industriousness led to one success after another.


Cast in a succession of interesting roles, he increasingly found
opportunities to show his dramatic abilities:


“Jawad” of Pakistan television drama “Jisay piya chahay” and “Atif” of “Aik
gana aik afsana” (haan isi moar per) made Aijaz household word and a media
darling.


His roles in the above two television plays are a breath taking art of
acting.


So far, Aijaz has visited and performed in quite a few Pakistani cities. He
also made public appearances in England, Canada, Dubai, Maldives and Turkey.


Aijaz appeared in a television drama, “Daira”, which was adapted from the
English novel, “Moth smoke”. Cast includes, Usman Peerzada- Fakhir- Bunny.


Aijaz played the character of “Naveed” in the Pakistan television drama,
“Patjhar ki chaaon”, cast includes Mahnoor Baluch- Javed Sheikh- Jahan Ara Hai-
Badar Khalil, written by Mohammad Ahmed.


Lyrics of the above two plays are good enough to be devoured, mesmerized and
insinuated in daily conversation.


He acts with his unique style, which he appropriately named “Aijaz style”.


Aijaz worked in the drama serial “Doosri Aurat”, directed by Haider Imam
Rizvi, written by Naheed Sultana Akhtar. Cast, Shakeel- Laila Zuberi- Ayesha
Khan.


One of Pakistan television’s most hand some man, his prestige grew with every
new role. He feels privileged to be born and bred in Pakistan.


Also, he considers himself a lucky person to be born with the God-gifted
talents for acting and entrepreneur ship.


He derives immense pleasure to bring happiness in the lives of millions of
his fellow human beings.


Aijaz was dubbed as a drug dealer in a television drama. He played the role
of notorious “Haider” or “Raider”, who trades narcotics for money. (The very
opposite of “Roshoo,” who waged war against drug dealers.)


“Raider” is another successful chapter in his remarkable career.


From “Roshoo’s” peerless dramatization to numerous inventive screen-
plays-his performance is simply unparalleled.


The popularity of Aijaz soared sky high in quick response to public
perception. He just would not permit failure.


His enormous output in his business and in showbiz, has embedded itself in
the Pakistani psyche.


What a difference ten years makes.


Today, he strides like a colossus in the world of fashion and modeling.


He certainly is prolific.


Are these astonishing performers born or made?


“No question, Aijaz Aslam is a phenomenon.


As with most prodigies, his technique is stunningly secure, but unlike many
of them, he refuses to settle for the merely immaculate”.


That, perhaps, is the secret of being a true prodigy.



Aijaz Aslam with former president Pervez Musharraf

Aijaz Aslam with former president Pervez Musharraf


Some of Aijaz Aslam’s popular television drama
serials and plays are listed below:






Kahan Se Kahan Tak on Ptv

Khahish e Benaam on Geo Tv

Kashkol on Ptv

Dharkan on Ptv

Mehndi on Ptv

Sherdil on Ary

Hum Se Juda Na Hona on Ptv

Mujhe Apna Bana Lo on Hum Tv

Tum Kahan Hum Kahan on Geo Tv

Main aur Tum on Ary

Kabhi Na Kabhi on Ary Tv

Thora Thora Piyar on Geo

Phir Youn Love Hua on Ptv

Doosri Aurat on Ptv

Tere Ishq Mein on Geo Tv

Socha Na Tha on Ary Tv

Na Tum Jano Na Hum Janain

Kismet

Halaat

Botal Gali

Rani ka Raja

Waqt

Piyasi

Ab Ghar Janay Do

Adnan Siddiqui

Adnan Siddiqui
Adnan
Siddiqui has become television’s leading man without conveying the
impression that he takes this mantle seriously. But whether he likes to
admit it or not, he has had a huge impact on local television.

With a
Hollywood movie under his belt, Adnan is one of the most bankable actors of
the television industry, today.

His journey started with his first play ‘Aroosa’ opposite Mishi Khan,
which became hugely popular, resulting in him getting many offers, including
roles in movies. Among them was a Sajjad Gul banner, ’Siyasat, Rishwat aur
Mehangai’, a very ambitious project, with the late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Sahib giving music for a film for the first time in his career, and Madam
Noor Jehan and Mohammed Ali Sahib making a comeback into films. It was to be
directed by Nazar-ul-Islam and the screenplay was to be written by Asghar
Nadeem Syed, who was riding high on the popularity of ‘Chand Grehan’.




As an actor just starting out, it was an excellent opportunity to launch
himself in a big way, but Adnan had reservations about the project from the
very beginning.

At the time, Adnan was working at Lintas Advertising and was confused as
to what he wanted to do with his life: whether acting was his true calling
or the world of advertising. He also had issues with changing his name, as
he was asked to go by the name of Shehryar, the name of the character he
played in ‘Aroosa’. After giving the opening shot, Adnan ran away from the
set, earning the nickname ’Bhagora’ in Lollywood. Even now whenever he
visits the Lahore film industry, everyone says, “Yeh bhagora aa gya.” The
film was then canned and later produced under another name and with another
director and writer.



Courtesy: Humsay magazine Aug
2009


















Some of Adnan’s popular television
drama serials and plays are listed below:


Drama - Baba Budhay ki machine on Ary Tv

Teledrama - Khalid ki Khalida on Tv One

Teledrama - Piyar Hai Yeh Kaisa on ARY T

Drama Serial Hotel

Mujhey Sochta Koi Aur Hai

Drama Jab Hatheli Per Chand Likhna on Indus Vision

Drama Serial Phir Youn Love Hua on Ptv

Drama Serial Madham Madham on Ary Tv

Drama series Aurat aur Chardeewari on Ary Tv

Drama Serial Mannat on Hum Tv

Drama Serial Aania on Tv One

Drama Serial Zaib-un-Nisa on Ptv

Drama Serial Meri Zaat Zarra-e-Be Nishan on Geo tv

Drama Serial Colony 52 on Tv One

Drama Serial Ishq Junoon Deewangi on Hum Tv

Drama Serial Phir Youn Love Hua on Ptv

Drama Serial Mehndi on Ptv

Drama Serial Uroosa on Ptv

Drama Serial Wujood e Laraib on Indus

Drama Serial Wilco on Ptv

Drama Serial Socha Na Tha on Ary Tv

Drama Soap Meri Adhoori Mohabbat on Geo Tv

Drama Serial Doraha on Geo Tv

Drama Serial Mulaqat on Hum Tv

Drama Serial Kaisa yeh junoon on Ary Tv

Drama Serial Ehsaas on Indus Tv

Apart from Tv plays & dramas, Adnan has worked in many
commercials also.


He has also performed in a movie: A Mighty Heart

Adeel Hashmi

Adeel Hashmi is a young talented director, actor, and creative producer behind several TV shows, documentaries, and commercials. He is the son of Shoaib Hashmi & Salima Hashmi and was born in Model Town Lahore.


Adeel Hashmi is the Director Projects of The Himmat Society.


He is a qualified film maker and graduate from the Academy of Art, San Francisco, USA from where he received a Master of Fine Art (MFA) degree in Creative Writing and Film Direction.


Adeel Hashmi also holds a Masters in Business Management degree from the Imperial College of Business Studies, Lahore, Pakistan.


Adeel Hashmi has been writing, acting, anchoring and directing for and on Television for the past 10 years.


His dramas are not only trend setters in every way but are hugely popular both with Pakistani audiences and abroad.


His style of writing is both funny and most thought provoking. His comments on social issues are focused without being offensive.


Adeel Hashmi is one of the most popular and well known young directors in the world of media in Pakistan.



Some of Adeel’s popular work as actor/director/producer


Sitcom The Lucy and Shaffu Show

Sitcom Teen Bata Teen

Sitcom Ulta Seedha

Drama Serial Kothi No 156

Tv Show Saj Dhaj

Music Video Dr aur Billa

Commercials

Coke

Ufone

UBL

Amrat Cola

Aids Public Service

Trend Mobile

Documentary: We are the light of the world

Adeel Hashmi


Q1 - Tell us a little bit about where you grew up, education and family?


I grew up in an old part of Lahore called Model Town. Model Town was designed by the British is the early 1920s. If you go to google earth and find Model Town, you’ll know why it is perhaps the best designed residential area in the country even today.


There were old and big houses, with tall trees in every garden, everyone knew everyone else. All the neighbors’ kids were our best pals. We grew up among two dozen friends of all ages. We played cricket, hockey, football, stone fighting, hide and seek, water fights, dark room, cards, monopoly, God knows what not. It was a dream childhood. Looking at kids today, it seems like I grew up in a dream. Yes, it was a dream childhood. Those were innocent times. There were hardly any cars. I don’t remember if our main gate was ever locked, even at night. Nobody felt the need. We didn’t even have walls around the houses, we only had bushes. It says so much about those times.


After finishing school in Model Town, I went to Government College Lahore like all my other family members. After my graduation I did my MBA from Imperial College, then a few years later MFA in filmmaking from Academy of Art University, San Francisco.


My mother worked for the Pakistan Television for 40 years. She’s retired recently and still continues a prestigious career in the media, traveling, lecturing, chairing international conferences etc. My father is a practicing psychologist, and my brother is a psychiatrist and lives and works for a big hospital in Arkansas, USA .


Q2 - You belong to a very talented family, all linked with the media, arts and education. How did it feel to grow up in such a rich and competitive environment? Did being in the media come naturally to you?


It wasn’t such a rich and competitive environment for me. I always felt my peers and friends found it so. I grew up watching rehearsals, singing songs, acting in plays, for me, it was always the line that I’d choose not because I was good or bad at it, but because I couldn’t do anything else. I did try my hand at business and marketing before deciding to put an end to that nonsense and taking up writing, directing and acting, something that came to me much more naturally. I always felt totally at home doing media work. I also composed songs, wrote scripts, acted, directed, hosted shows etc.


I didn’t have much of a choice. I only got to choose when to take my first step. The path, had already been decided for me by the Supreme Commander. If I had a thousand lives, I’d do exactly what I’ve been doing. God has been too kind.


Q3 - Tell us about your film direction career; what inspired this interest and what kind of films are you most interested in making?


There is really not an event that inspires you to choose a path. It’s a combination of factors. The pressure keeps building up until one day, you explode like a volcano. That’s what happened with me. I grew up watching Amitabh Bachchan’s movies, James Bond movies. And I couldn’t for the life of me think of a reason why anyone would want to do anything OTHER than making movies. At the time I was also a child star who would come on television and advertisements etc. And people thought I was good. In politeness, I never disagreed! It was much later that I knew I had to study filmmaking in order to make films. The kind of films that I like are the ones which stay with you. You take them home with you from the movie theatre. They bring out your good side. They move you. They make you think. They make you laugh and cry. They are your friends. Your intangible friends.


Q4 - What are some of your personal strengths that set you apart as a director?


Thats’ really not for me to decide. I think perhaps my sensitivity, and a little bit of wit. I admit that I am a deeply emotional person whether I’m working or not. I get attached with my team and my work. I have cried more times than I’d like to admit during work just because something came off beautifully. And vice versa.


I am also very careful with my actors. I know they’re treading a fine line. I have to give them their balance. If they trip, everything will fall. All actors like that. They want an understanding director. I am more of a ‘human element’ director. If the actors don’t act, but they actually ‘become’ then I have the audience. I think that is a great strength.


Q5 - What are the biggest challenges for young, independent film makers like you? Is it funds, subjects, distribution, or something else?


Funds yes. Distribution yes. Also the infra-structure and the movie culture is non existent in Pakistan. We have no technically trained people to work behind the camera, no studios facilities, no makeup artists, no wardrobe people, no art directors; we can even hardly find extras for our films. All of this adds up when you make a film. You start taking out one thing at a time, and by the time you finish your film, it looks like a Pakistani film. This can’t change overnight but it surely can start overnight, and I think it has.



Q6 - What is your opinion of the state of the Pakistani film industry (commercial cinema)? What are young film makers doing to improve the standards?


If we produce 20 films a year and the total annual revenue is less than the budget of one mainstream Indian film then we shouldn’t be calling it Pakistani film ‘industry’. Its not an easy thing to admit. But it’s the truth. Our industry died years ago. We have a habit of wearing our past laurels on our heads as a crown. May it be Imran Khan’s world cup, Jehangir Khan’s squash record, Pakistan Television’s old dramas or our Muslim rulers 10 centuries ago. No one wants to know what is happening TODAY. I think the film industry has to be reinvented from scratch. And a lot of work has to be done. I think the first step has been taken. Some new people have come in to make films. This year some new cineplexes are also being constructed. Competitive filmmakers who make advertisements are planning films. Film schools have been setup. New television channels have trained young minds. Many of them would eventually want to do films. The change is slow, but it’s on its way.


Q7 - You have also done some acting as well, why did you decide to discontinue that career?


Same reason I took up direction. I felt the directors I worked with not only lacked sensitivity and technical skill but also their understanding of actors was very poor. An actor is the director’s main ally and the most important weapon. You better know how to use it to get maximum results. I decided to use that weapon myself, so I stepped behind the camera. But I didn’t discontinue my acting completely. You’ll see me very shortly.


Q8 - What do you like to do when you are not making films? Any other projects or ventures you’d like to tell us about?


I have just finished a series for Geo that should be launched in May this year called Kotthi Number 156.


I also produce a weekly program on weddings and designs called Saj Dhaj.


I am, these days, involved in designing and producing another talk show that I may host called ‘ICONS’.


I am also writing a film that I plan to get involved in later this year.


Recently, I assisted Mr. Shoaib Mansoor in his forthcoming maiden film venture called Khuda Kay Liyay. I consider Shoaib Mansoor to be the greatest visionary director in Pakistan.


Whenever I get a little bit of time I make advertisements and documentaries to keep learning new things.

My two year old daughter is a full time project I’m working on too!



Q9 - What words of encouragement would you give to the young people who want to become film directors like you?


Passion. That’s all that matters. Go for it.


Q10 - Lastly what message would you like to convey to our readers?


Success is to be able laugh loudly…and frequently. Make yourself and everyone around you a success!

Friday, 4 December 2009

PTV Drama - Bandhan

It’s an adaptation of Bushra Rehman’s ‘Buut-shikaan’ and ‘Lagan’. A bit of overacting (some critics might say alot) and with a story which is not so real.

The play is watchable because it’s pretty funny (especially the quips between the husband and wife) and as always it’s fun to watch Nadia. Noman Masood does a good job but looks uncomfortable doing the romantic scenes and thus comes across as a little unbelievable.

I hope his talents don’t get wasted doing “vadera”-type roles. The character that comes across as a fairly strong and realistic one is that of Qutub sahab. He does a fine job in his small role. The play was a bit confusing to me because I couldn’t figure out why a guy would marry someone because he likes her and then treat her like Aafaq does Faree. Nobody leaves their wife on the night of the wedding to go drop off their mother! - quite a ridiculous scenario. Aafaq has this huge ego which he can’t get rid off and Faree is raised in a rich and sheltered enviroment and has no manners whatsoever. Then there is a classic textbook version of fraud that Faree has to deal with -again highly unbelievable that someone so educated would fall for such antics. The story deals with Aafaq and Faree’s struggle to put aside their differences, but terribly fails to show a realistic account of a marriage. There’s also a side story about how another girl, Dilnawaz comes to terms with her life. It’s like watching a silly version of Aanch. Entertaining -yes; realistic -partially.

Director: Tariq Mairaj
Writer: Mansha Yaad
Starring: Nadia Khan, Nauman Masood, Dr. Tariq Reham, Naseem Qureshi, Rabia Tabassum, Iqbal Hussai, Urfi, Sabir Hussain, Arif Malik, Iffat Chaudhry, Shahid Hashmi, Farah Sadia, Iqbal Hassan, Aisha Khan

Click here to Watch All parts