People love seeing their favorite faces everywhere on the TV. How hard is it to cope with music and acting at the same time?
I did not really do both together. By the time I started my career in television our music industry lost its thing. Though if our music industry rises again I will choose music because that’s what my passion is.
What is that one moment when you thought of stepping into the drama industry after being a known part of the music industry?
With music I was doing a 9 to 5 job too. It was time for me to decide how I wanted to go as an individual. I soon realized why I am not fully related to entertainment and that’s when I did it. Though I was offered many times earlier but dint consider.
We have seen Junaid following fashion on screen. What do you do to look equally trendy off screen?
Being a celebrity we do make conscious efforts to look good all the time. I like dressing up for myself so I do pay a lot of attention on fitness and looking good off-screen too. I try eating healthy and keep myself into sports.
Artist and an Engineer? What’s your story behind this deadly combination?
Back then engineering and medical were considered as the most prestigious fields in Pakistan and I was lucky enough to make it to UET because of good grades. So I did it. About art, it comes from my mother who herself is a gold medalist. I initially wanted to do architecture but dint make through. So I have a very strong believe in fate. God wanted me here and so I am.
You have moved to Karachi after living a major portion of your life in Lahore. What is it about Lahore that you miss the most?
Karachi is the financial hub of Pakistan, it’s a very busy city, people are working very hard all the time to make a good living. Whereas Lahore on the other hand is opposite. People have a balanced life there. I miss that balanced life and my family the most.
We are sure travel is one of the most often done things in an actor’s life. What’s your favorite destination?
I find Dubai very entertaining because it has a mix of culture. You find people from around the globe in Dubai. It’s a small city but has it all. Big Malls, culture, great architecture, beaches and clubs Dubai has it all.
How was your experience with collaborating with foreign music artists?
It was very good. Jennifer Jandris is a very good friend and it was great working with her. I composed the song as soon as we had the idea about it. It was not just heavily appreciated by people in Pakistan, but people from the states loved it too and saw a better image of our country and that was a very proud moment. I am proud of my contribution in creating a better image of Pakistan.
While performing live I’m sure there’s a lot of pressure. How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
While performing live mistakes are bound to happen. But they are actually fun. Since we have practiced so much that we usually cover up. I have experienced forgetting lyrics and missing beats but haven’t experienced anything worse
Now that you’ve been into the drama industry. How much of the industry do you think is superficial?
Aaa, yes some part is superficial. Some people actually like creating an image because that’s what sells. So yes we keep changing and revolving. Yes some parts do become superficial but we do it to impress the audience only.
Who has been your favorite co actor so far? What makes you feel so comfortable around her?
Taking one name would be totally unfair because I don’t really remember not being comfortable around any of my costars. I think all of them are fun to work with. They are all very generous and charming. Picking out one name won’t do justice.
What do you do or feel when a scene calls for you to display hatred?
I had to do my first hate scene with Sanam Saeed where I had to slap her. I always imagine myself as an action hero while slapping costars. I always had action in my mind like all boys do maybe. But latter when my fans thought I was extremely ‘Zalim’ I decided not to do negative roles.
If you had to star in a remake of a classical film who would you want to play?
I don’t know if you consider Hard Target as a classic but I would love to do a remake. Jean Claude is a great action hero and I would love to take his role there.
We know how hectic an Artist’s life is.What do you do to relax?
I find workout very relaxing. My family on the other hand is a very good diversion. My 1 year old son gives me a lot of relaxation. I love going out with him. Besides that I love going to cinemas. I’d watch any movie. I love getting popcorns and ice tea and enjoying a nice movie.
Karachi has a new restaurant or café almost every other day? Do you enjoy exploring new food places or you like sticking to the old ones you love?
I do love exploring but because I am such a foodie I avoid going to my favorite spots. I usually go for a better ambiance but I really like checking new spots out. But there are some places where I go a lot here in Karachi. Xanders, Muse, Espresso and Ginsoy are my all-time favorite.
Pakistan Fashion industry always has something for us? Do you take interest in new designers, collections?
Fashion industry is the only industry in Pakistan that is surviving on its own because of the unity in the industry. I really admire new designers coming up but my favorite is my very good friend HSY. I admire him a lot. He is a great friend and a brilliant designer.
Do you worry about whether people like you for the real, or because you are a celebrity?
It’s a known fact that a man is recognized by the work he does. So I don’t really worry about it nor am I ashamed about people liking me for my work.
A celebrity’s life happens to be difficult. How do you float through all the hardships?
Honestly I’ve been gifted with a calm and composed mind. I believe everyone works for themselves and there is no harm in appreciating them. It’s always good to appreciate people excelling even if they are a competition. Competitors don’t give me a kick. And I don’t want to be anyone else. I always encourage people excelling.
Say after 15 years from now who do you see yourself?
15 years is a lot of time. I would definitely not stop working because a man is meant to work though I would like giving more time to my family and progress more in my field. I would want a balance of everything.
Zainab Kamran
Karachi Correspondent for Kluchit.com
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