Celebrities

Mikaal Zulfiqar Reveals Insights About His Work in India

In a recent interview with BBC Urdu, renowned Pakistani actor Mikaal Zulfiqar unfolded his groundbreaking portrayal as Sherry in the TV serial “Jaise Apki Marzi.” The actor explored the intricacies of his character, discussed the challenges of tackling intense roles, and shared candid reflections on the dynamics of the Pakistani entertainment industry.

Additionally, he addressed the issue of India exploiting Pakistani artists. Mikaal commenced by shedding light on Sherry’s unique character, recognizing the rarity of roles that unabashedly confront their toxicity. He attributed the compelling narrative to the scriptwriter, who deviated from the conventional female-driven dramas.

“Toxic people never admit they’re toxic. But we need to credit Sherry for at least being who he is on your face. I would also like to credit the writer for this great script. I said yes to Sherry because it was a driving character. Usually, our dramas are female-driven and the female character is pushing the narrative forward. But in this case, it was the other way around.”

Mikaal Zulfiqar Exposes Level of Selfishness in Industry

The actor admitted to a certain level of selfishness in accepting the role, driven by the belief that Sherry’s complexity would allow him to showcase his acting prowess. Despite Sherry’s dominating and overpowering demeanour in scenes with Alizeh’s character, Mikaal found a margin for artistic expression, and the positive reception from the audience affirmed his decision. “To be honest, there was nothing good about Sherry, in all the scenes he is dominating Alizeh’s character, he is overpowering, and so, it didn’t inspire me in real life. But as an actor, I saw a lot of margin. You could say, I was selfish while accepting this script because I felt I could shine. And I did so, that’s wonderful.”

When asked about encountering individuals like Sherry, Mikaal drew inspiration from society, personal experiences, and interactions with narcissistic personalities. Reflecting on the challenging scenes, Mikaal emphasized his commitment to maintaining a natural flow in his performance. He stated, “I tried to keep things natural, and that’s what I’m getting compliments for as well. I didn’t try to force anything. I could’ve taken pauses, delivered my dialogues with emphasis on certain words, but I wanted to deliver everything fluently. People are calling it my best performance till date, and I wouldn’t disagree with that.”

The conversation then shifted to the impact of intense characters on an actor. Mikaal acknowledged that the roles an actor plays can leave a lasting mark, prompting him to be selective about the characters he portrays. He said, “Even if you’re acting, you’re still performing an act (real or not) that that character would. I understood this seven years ago, and I became very careful about the kind of characters I play. When I was offered the character that Ahsan Khan plays in Udaari, that of a child molester, I rejected it because I didn’t want to play that out. I have daughters of my own.”

Mikaal Zulfiqar Discusses “Jaise Apki Marzi”

Discussing Jaise Apki Marzi, Mikaal highlighted the drama’s focus on red flags in relationships. “Jaise Apki Marzi is about the red flags we tend to overlook in relationships earlier on and its consequences later in life. Mostly women can relate to it because they feel their husbands or their ex-husbands were exactly like this. It saddens me. I think, if this drama can help people spot these red flags earlier on, it’s served its purpose. And this isn’t just for women, but men too. Women can be toxic as well.”

In a candid revelation, Mikaal also addressed his experiences working in India, noting that while he has received positive feedback from Indians, he believes Pakistani artists have been exploited in the Indian entertainment industry. He clarified that his comments weren’t fuelled by animosity but a call for a levelled playing field. “I said what I said based on my own experience and everyone knows the history behind this working relationship. Not just me but a lot of artists have been exploited in India. Deep down, Indians are great, so much of my feedback I get from Indians and I have a lot of interaction with them. But some parts of India or some people, especially the Indian establishment, whenever they get the chance, they paint us in a negative light. To be clear, I don’t have any enmity against them, but the playing field needs to be levelled.

Also Read: For the First Time, Mikaal Zulfiqar Shares His Divorce Reasons.

Related Topics:Bollywood Jaise Apki Marzi Mikaal Zulfiqar

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Farhan Saeed Celebrates Sybil Suhail’s Win

Farhan Saeed, former frontman of the renowned Pakistani band Jal and now a singer-songwriter and actor, took to Instagram to publicly express his pride after Sybil Sohail became the first Pakistani woman to win the gold medal at the Asian Weightlifting Masters Championship in Doha, Qatar.

In a simple Instagram Story, Saeed tagged Sohail herself and wrote, “Proud moment. Congratulations.” Adding a Pakistani flag emoji at the end of his short but sweet message to lock in his national pride, Saeed’s simple message captured the essence of the country’s joy and pride in Sohail’s achievement

This gold medal marked not only her debut in international weightlifting but also a significant milestone for Pakistani women in strength sports.

Previously a decorated powerlifter, Sohail holds titles such as Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion and Asian Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. Transitioning to weightlifting, she set out with a clear ambition: to raise Pakistan’s flag at major Asian events.

“I aim to make my country proud, make my family proud. We have sacrificed a lot for the sport, but I need to make sure that all of that effort and dedication pays off,” Sohail told The Express Tribune in Doha.

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Ayeza Khan Criticized for Remarks after Sana Yousaf’s Murder

Actress Ayeza Khan is facing widespread criticism for her statement following the horrifying murder of 17-year-old TikTok star Sana Yousaf, with many accusing her of victim-blaming and showing a lack of empathy.

In a now-viral Instagram Story, Ayeza wrote, “Let’s all understand the pros and cons of social media, especially when it comes to our security. Keep your addresses, car numbers, regular spots, and children’s details private. It’s not safe, it’s just not safe.

Share less. Times have changed. Recognize that the audience you have today isn’t the one you personally chose. It’s from all over the world.
Let’s take responsibility for what we share. May Allah protect us all and keep us in good company. Ameen.”

Social media users quickly criticised the timing and tone of her message. Critics argue that by emphasising digital privacy instead of addressing the gender-based violence that led to Sana’s death, Ayeza inadvertently shifted the blame toward the victim.

One user commented, “Ayeza Khan once again effortlessly portraying her lack of brain cells. Stop blaming women for getting murdered and START BLAMING MEN FOR MURDERING them.”

Another wrote, “In other words, Ayeza Khan blamed the victim….?
Great. Now we know where it’s coming from… Your husband is playing toxic roles on national TV, setting terrible examples, and you’re here blaming the victim.”

Many pointed out the irony in her message, citing her husband Danish Taimoor’s frequent portrayal of violent and misogynistic characters in television dramas; roles that, some argue, normalise abusive behaviour and contribute to the unsafe climate women navigate daily.

A user stated, “When a girl says no and faces violence, we shouldn’t question her choices—rather, we should condemn the abuser. Ayeza Khan needs to understand this. Victim blaming solves nothing.”

Another added: “Classic ‘pick me’ behavior from Ayeza Khan. Couldn’t even post a prayer for the deceased had to lecture about social media. Also, your husband makes trash psychotic dramas that glorify this stuff. How about calling that out?”

Also Read: Was Hania Aamir Missing from Nayel Wajahat’s Big Day?

Celebrities

Celebrities Demand Exemplary Punishment in Sana Yousaf’s Brutal Murder

The tragic murder of 17-year-old TikToker and MBBS student Sana Yousaf has shaken Pakistan to its core — and now, the country’s biggest celebrities are speaking out with one voice: justice must be swift, and the punishment must set an example.

On a quiet day that turned into a national nightmare, Sana was gunned down in front of her mother and aunt — allegedly by her own cousin — for nothing more than saying “No.” A simple, rightful refusal to unwanted advances cost her her life.

This chilling case, steeped in violence, entitlement, and gendered rage, has prompted an outpouring of grief and fury from across the nation. Among those leading the call for accountability are Pakistan’s most prominent actors, who have used their platforms not just to mourn, but to demand justice that speaks louder than hashtags.

Mahira Khan, who has long used her voice to amplify social justice issues, didn’t mince words. “An example needs to be made,” she said, urging the legal system to ensure that Sana’s killer receives the kind of punishment that sends a powerful message: Women are not disposable. No means no. And murder will not go unpunished.

Actress Sajal Aly echoed the nation’s heartbreak, lamenting that a young girl full of life and dreams was shot dead simply for exercising her right to reject a man. “How many more?” her post seemed to ask — a question that has haunted too many families, too many daughters.

Maya Ali expressed open frustration and fury, demanding the harshest consequences for the perpetrator. “He should be hanged,” she wrote, voicing what many felt: that justice, in this case, must be clear, public, and absolute.

Imran Abbas, deeply disturbed, called on authorities to treat this case not as an isolated tragedy, but as part of a horrifying pattern of violence against women. His words carried the weight of sorrow and the urgency of action: this must stop now.

Veteran actress Nadia Jamil, known for her activism, also shared her devastation at Sana’s murder. She reminded her followers that behind every trending hashtag is a real girl, a real life cut short — and a grieving family left with nothing but silence where laughter once lived.

The suspect, now in custody, has reportedly confessed. The weapon was recovered. The evidence is there. What remains to be seen is whether Pakistan’s justice system will rise to the occasion — not just for Sana, but for every woman who’s been silenced, threatened, or killed for daring to say no.

This is not just about one girl. It is about all of them. It is about reclaiming the basic human right to live, to reject, to be safe in one’s home — even from those who share your blood.

Sana Yousaf should have been studying, smiling into her phone, and planning a future. Instead, her name has become a rallying cry.