Quaid e Azam Zindabad is not only a film but a ray of hope

Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad is not only set to bring alive the cinema screens this Eid ul Azha, but will also be a test for its lead pair Fahad Mustafa and Mahira Khan. Both had their last films released in 2018 and 2019 respectively (Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2 and Load Wedding for the former, Superstar for the latter) and will be making a filmy comeback after quite some time.

However, one look at their upcoming film’s trailer and songs makes you understand why the two superstars are upbeat ahead of their mini-comeback. BOLD met the two on the eve of their film’s release and discussed the experience they had on the sets as well as their expectations from a film that might push the film industry in the right direction, once again.

As the trailer had snippets of Mahira in action and having a pepper spray, it suggested that her role is different from any other role she has done in the past – feisty and bold. “She is a girl of today; aware and informed. She doesn’t take anyone’s nonsense. She rides around in the city on her bike, knows her rights and is an empowered woman. The role is about her perception of looking at life and absorbing her surroundings. A true devil-may-care woman.” She excitedly explicated.

As we already have films on corruption such as recent Ghabrana Nahi Hai and Kahay Dil Jidhar, what makes this story so different? “All stories are the same but the presentations are diverse. Ingredients and combinations matter a lot. Mahira and I are coming in a movie for the first time. We are not just characters in a film but there is a story to it. Every movie is different from the other and there is no comparison as the presentations, depictions and perspectives are completely different, liking and disliking can be decided later.” Fahad replied.

Mahira seconds Fahad and adds that the story is beyond corruption. “I know it’s easy to conclude a story through a title, or maybe, trailer. Corruption is an element that is there in the movie, but the story has a deeper message – what were the principles on which Pakistan was created. We have lost our way somewhere and do not realise it.”

Our conversation took a lighter turn when I asked both of them about the number of songs. Initially, they disagreed that they have any song (which surprised me) but one which is a sad song and that is too of a minute. Later, they revealed that they have great and engaging songs which will definately move the audience.

“There are interesting songs sung by Shaani, Ali Zafar, Meesha, and Bilal Saeed. People will enjoy the album. We might not have a wedding song but we have a party song. However, one song is a situational song that could play a role of a catalyst in bringing two people closer and maybe tie the knot.”

Fahad has been away from TV for quite a long time and since he has opened his production house, he seriously wants to focus on his productions. Whereas Mahira has made a strong comeback with Aik Hai Nigar and Hum Kahan Kay Sachay Thay to television, I asked Fahad if he is planning to make a comeback anytime soon.

“Why does everyone want me to come back to dramas? We should just hope that we have better, bigger and good movies and lots of them. I do not want to come back to television, to be very honest. I have had my share and have done a lot of TV, now I want to move forward. I am also not keen on appearing on OTT platforms because then one can be seen on a mobile screen as well whereas I am aiming for bigger screen now.”

Fahad clarified that he is not demeaning the drama industry as he is a product of TV and got all fame, respect and recognition from that medium which made him what he is today. Yet, he wants to explore other mediums and produce good content which he thinks is the industry deprived of. “I love creating characters for others but I can’t create a character for myself.”

Mahira believes that producing a film is a tough task but it’s rewarding. “It is a strange feeling of putting everything together, people loving it and this makes one feel out of this world.” She further went on to clarify that she will only be producing through her own production, Soul Fry, and that also when something truly strikes her.

Mahira also sheds light on her work experience in India and how the production houses work there. She said that India is a bigger country and has a bigger industry which is a completely different game. “There is not much difference when it comes to working anywhere as it’s just the camera and actor has to prove the prowess. That is it.”

Fahad also agrees with Mahira and said: “When I say that we need to make more movies and produce more content by that I mean that we have to think beyond in order to polish and refine things in our industry.”

While now being a producer, Fahad still rejoices the craziness of acting. “I can die for acting. I really enjoy the madness; 6 am call time, running here and there, crazy shooting schedules and everything. You don’t have time to think beyond the camera. It’s just another world.”

“I would like to share something very personal here that my pigmentation goes away when I am shooting. I am not stressed and really happy on the sets  even my skin issues go away.” He adds.

“I am in a make-believe world when I am on a movie or a drama set. Except for being around Azlan, I am the happiest on sets. It is a kind of happiness and peace that I will never be able to describe”, Mahira said.

When I asked them about royalities to the actors, both of them asked me to move on to the next question. They now believe that no matter how much they beat the drum together no one is there to listen. However, Mahira said that the actors need to be paid a good amount so they could also help others. “Royalties is something that is talked about alot, but no one pays heed so the only thing this government can do and make sure is that none of the artists should die poor and hungry. They could at least do that. When you ask me about working in India and about their industry then I would like to add that they have unions there who support their artists and fight for their rights.”

Fahad augments that we have to come up with good films and entertainment should not be a burden on one’s pocket. The government has taken an initiative where they have released taxes so I believe there are teething issues but they will be resolved with time.