'Every character we play is a journey’

AZFAR REHMAN ON ACTING AND HIS IMPRESSIVE RISE

by ASJAD NAZIR

MASSIVELY in-demand actor Azfar Rehman has had a prolific career that has seen him deliver winning performances in hit TV drama serials, telefilms and on the big screen.

The popular Pakistani star has shown off his impressive range with challenging roles in a wide array of projects, which have entertained millions around the world. The dashing star doesn’t plan on slowing down and has a number of interesting projects on the way, including more feature films.

Eastern Eye caught up with hard-working star Azfar Rehman to talk about acting, his career and future hopes.

What first connected you to acting?

As far as I recall, I have been an actor forever. Ever since my earliest days, I have been performing, going from school shows to television, so it has always been in my blood. But I made a strong connection with acting after my first TV serial (Kaisa Ye Junoon) because it made me realise how one can influence the lives of so many people through acting.

You have been working hard on films, TV and telefilms since you started. Have you had time to enjoy your success?

Not really, because good work has been a priority. I have had my fair share of travels and there have been celebrations when a project has done well, but it all depends on what success is for you. Is it all that jazz or inner peace? I’m still struggling to figure that out.

Which of the many projects have given you the greatest joy?

My first solo hit movie Chhalawa in 2019 was ranked the third greatest money-spinner of the year and that made me really happy. Adding to that, my serial Aatish on Hum TV did really well, getting me rave reviews and a lot of critical acclaim (it is available on YouTube).

You have done a wide array of projects, but which role taught you the most?

My serial two years back, Nazar E Badd, based on black magic, where I played the antagonist. It taught me a lot about the underplay of acting. It wasn’t a regular love story and a totally different project with a unique approach altogether. My character Pervaiz will always be the one I’ll be most proud of.

How does acting in a serial compare to films?

It’s a little subtle in TV as we, in Pakistan, try to keep it as natural as possible, but films are larger than life, so the hero persona has to be impactful. I feel film separates a hero from a character, whereas in TV drama, everyone is playing a character.

What would be your dream role?

I would love to do Mirza Ghalib. In today’s time and age, it would be challenging to see how someone with Ghalib’s ideologies would cope in the world. Interesting right?

What can we expect next from you?

I’m working on two movies and both are romcoms. They will be releasing by June.

What inspires you?

Life inspires me. I experience life while travelling. It elevates me and fills me up with energy, zest and zeal to take things to another level. I always prefer travelling for inspiration over everything else.

Tell us something about you not many people know?

I read a lot of poetry and watch Friends over and over again.

Why do you love being an actor?

Acting gives me an opportunity to experience so many things, which you wouldn’t be able to in real life and that is priceless. Good or bad, it makes you understand life and people so much. We play so many roles and every character is a journey, which you live, and that makes you understand people very easily.