‘Wakhri’ film is a tribute to Qandeel Baloch: Faryal Mehmood

Seated comfortably in a chair, Faryal Mehmood smiles as she responds to questions, passionately discussing her upcoming film “Wakhri.” The film, directed by Iram Parveen Bilal, unfolds a captivating narrative centered around a single mother’s struggle to establish a school for girls, a story that takes an unexpected turn after a night of unconventional self-expression.

A Tribute to Qandeel Baloch in “Wakhri”

Mehmood reveals that “Wakhri” serves as a tribute to the late Qandeel Baloch, Pakistan’s first influencer who challenged societal norms. Drawing parallels between her characters, Noor and Qandeel, Mehmood emphasizes the film’s exploration of the misunderstood aspects of Baloch’s life. The storyline reflects the resonance between the struggles of the protagonist and the societal judgments faced by Qandeel.

While portraying Noor in “Wakhri,” Mehmood grappled with the delicate balance of exploring societal taboos. The character transforms from a frustrated teacher to a mysterious social media sensation, which echoes Qandeel Baloch’s journey. Mehmood’s nuanced approach to the role involves blending elements of Qandeel’s dialogues with her interpretation, aiming to resonate with the audience while exploring the fine line between boldness and societal acceptance.

Acceptability in Pakistani Audience

Mehmood candidly shares her concerns during the film’s production, questioning the limits of sensuality and societal tolerance. The character of Noor, hailing from a middle-class background, navigates the challenges of expressing herself within societal constraints. As Mehmood describes, the film mirrors Qandeel Baloch’s unapologetic nature and the societal backlash she faced for challenging conventions.

“I didn’t mimic Qandeel or perform like she did. I made it my own, but some dialogues I got from Qandeel, and the audience would be able to recall them,” says Mehmood. The film delicately treads the line between captivating storytelling and societal critique, with Mehmood urging the Pakistani audience to engage with and reflect on the narrative.

Read more: Remembering Qandeel Baloch Wakhri to Debut at the Red Sea Film Festival