- Our dramas reflect the true state of society. Infidelity is an issue, a very prevalent one. The dramas portray what’s happening in society: Siddiqui
- The way we are consuming Indian OTT content, it’s pretty much evident that the lines are getting blurred: Actor
NE FEATURES BUREAU
Adnan Siddiqui opens his heart for Navjeevan Express readers. Excerpts from the interview:
How does it feel to have your show Mere Paas Tum Ho reaching the Indian audience for the first time on Zindagi? What are your expectations?
I firmly believe that MPTH will replicate its enormous success in India, just as it did in our home country. The influx of fan mail and the widespread excitement the drama generated, even inspiring a rip-off in China, are clear indicators of its phenomenal appeal. Additionally, the remarkable response to our shows when Zindagi first introduced Pakistani dramas attests to their commendable reception. The millions of views we consistently garner on YouTube also serve as undeniable proof that our dramas are beloved on both sides of the border.
Can you tell us about your experience working on Mere Paas Tum Ho and the impact it has had on your career?
MPTH is one more feather in my cap. It was a razor’s edge that I was treading playing both an antagonist and a charmer. Thankfully Shehwar was able to charm his way into the hearts of men too! Some of the major chunks of my fan mail came from them.
The show received mixed reactions and some even criticized the storyline, of a woman cheating a man in the relationship. What do you have to say about this? Do you think the audience is yet to open doors to such content?
Our dramas reflect the true state of society. Infidelity is an issue, a very prevalent one. The dramas portray what’s happening in society. That said, I don’t endorse cheating at all whether it’s in relationships, marriage, or while dealing with everyday life. It shows how weak and wavering your moral compass is, that you are a weak human being. I also condone associating it with a particular gender. Whether it’s a man who’s stepped out or a woman, they have done wrong. Of course, the audience feels a bit rattled when such dramas are made because these are uncomfortable truths and no one wants to confront them.
Hypothetically, if the show had to be made in India, who do you think from Indian actors would fit the lead cast?
Humayun’s role: Ram Kapoor, Adnan’s role: Ronit Roy, Ayeza’s role: Tanya Maniktala
What do you feel that connects Indian audiences to Pakistani content?
There are multiple factors for the kind of popularity our dramas enjoy. The storylines are steeped in reality, we talk about everyday issues that affect everyday people, life as it is. We shoot at real locations that engage the audience further as compared to the feel one gets watching shows shot on a set like most Indian dramas do. And of course, the fashion here is loved by women in India.
Are there any particular moments or scenes from Mere Paas Tum Ho that you believe will leave a lasting impact on Indian viewers?
Every scene and every dialogue will leave the audience wanting more. The script is so tightly woven and the plot too will have you hooked.
What message or emotions do you hope to convey to the Indian audience through the show?
I am an entertainer. I am there to entertain, not to educate. If there still is a message you want me to give out, I’d simply ask the audience to introspect how they would react in similar circumstances.
Do you think OTT somewhere helped blur the lines between the two countries with content from both India and Pakistan being exchanged and viewed?
OTT content in India is far better than what’s being shown on Indian television. Some of the series that I have watched in the past are phenomenal. The way we are consuming Indian OTT content, it’s pretty much evident that the lines are getting blurred.
Can you share any insights into future projects or collaborations that you have in mind to further, bridge the gap between the Pakistani and Indian entertainment industries?
I am looking for a collaboration. Having said that, MPTH releasing in India is also a kind of collaboration between Pakistani drama and Indian audiences, thanks to Zindagi. Hope it’s the first step towards opening borders for artists.
