Pakistan’s prolific young star shines

POPULAR ACTRESS KINZA HASHMI ON HER REMARKABLE RISE, FUTURES HOPES AND HOW SHE’LL BE SPENDING EID

SHE may only be 23-years-old, but massively in-demand actress Kinza Hashmi has starred in a staggering number of drama serials since making her debut as a teenager in 2014.

The popular Pakistani star has won acclaim for her performances in drama serials including Daldal, Ishq Tamasha, Tu Mera Junoon, Deewar-e-Shab and Tera Yahan Koi Nahi. The rapidly rising star has more projects on the way when the current Covid-19 lockdown is over and is part of an exciting new wave of world-class talent in Pakistan.

Eastern Eye caught up with Kinza during the lockdown to discuss her journey so far, Eid plans and future hopes.

How have you been coping with the Covid-19 lockdown?

I’m actually trying to make the most out of it and not letting the negativity take over. I’m polishing my cooking skills and trying to be more organised. Above all, I’m spending most of my time with family and feel it’s the best thing this Covid-19 lockdown has given me.

Is there one thing that has helped you most to get you through this?

My family and friends. They are the people who are helping me get throw this isolation and I am very thankful to them.

Have you had a chance to look at your incredibly successful acting journey?

I have lived my journey. I have and am enjoying every bit of it. I leave it to my fans if they see it as a successful journey, but for me it’s pure hardwork. I want to carry on working hard.

You have been prolific, but which of your projects have given you the greatest joy?

I enjoy all my work, but if I had to choose it would be Ishq Tamasha, Seerat, and Gul-o-Gulzar. I enjoyed doing these projects because I had a comfortable and talented cast. They were very well produced serials and have great scripts.

Which project was the most challenging?

I would not say challenging because I see all my projects as a challenge, but if I have to pick I would say Rani as we shot the whole drama in a rural area. The shoot lasted for more than a year. We had less facilities and worked hard under pressure, so in that sense I would say it was little challenging to do.

Who have you most enjoyed working with?

I loved working with Ayeza Khan. She is a gem of a person and helpful on set. Ayeza would tell you little things, which would help you to improve your skills. She is humble, sweet and easy to work with. She is like my sister.

You have been massively in demand; how have you coped with the heavy works schedule?

Alhumdulillah Allah has been very kind to me. However, I planned my shoots according to my available dates. I don’t over work, Alhumdulillah, I’m organised that way, so I easily cope with my heavy work schedule.

Do you have a process when creating a character?

Yes, I do have a set method and practise always before starting any of my new projects. I always read my script thoroughly, speak with my director and sit with my team. I always like to create and understand my character before going on the set.

What would be your dream role?

My dream character would be my own story. One day, I want to make a movie out of my life story. I’m sure it would be interesting, so my dream is to play Kinza Hashmi.

What will you do when the lockdown is over?

Its not about lockdown, but about the virus plaguing us right now. So, we should ask what would we do when the coronavirus is over. My answer is I will say Alhumdulillah and will appreciate every aspect of life.

What is your acting master plan?

I don’t have a plan as such and would just like to go with the flow. (Smiles) Allah is the best planner for me.

Do you see yourself working in the west?

Why not, Asjad? It’s my job. I would love to work everywhere in the world, not just the west.

Do you have ambitions away from acting?

I’ve always been ambitious about acting and I always wanted to become an actress, so that is my focus right now, but who knows what the future holds.

What are your passions away from work?

I’m living my passion right now. I’m very passionate about my work.

What is the best advice you ever got?

My mother gave me a piece of advice which really helps me in all aspects of life that is, never convince yourself why you failed, accept your failures and bounce back.

What have been your hopes and prayers during Ramadan?

I hope the kind of people we become in Ramadan, we stay like that throughout the year. Ameen.

How spiritual are you?

I am very spiritual and blessed that way.

How will you be celebrating Eid?

With my loved ones at home, so I would say, everyone also should stay home and be safe.

What inspires you?

Best behaviour inspires me. People who are beautiful at heart inspire me a lot.

Why do you love being an actor?

Acting gives me a pleasure of living different lives. It allows me to experience different problems and joys, by portraying different characters. That’s why I love being an actor.