With his impeccable comic timing, fiery energy, and zest to take on a plethora of characters, actor Muhammad Ahsan Shafqat knew he was always meant to take on the big screen and become famous. Speaking to Social Diary, the talented artist and well-known digital personality spoke more about his humble beginnings, what it means to strive ahead when everyone is trying to pull you down, and how he aims to become the most popular actor in Pakistan. Read On:
SD: Share with us a little about your childhood and what it was like growing up.
Ahsan: I was a little shy in my childhood. I had always loved to play cricket and wanted to get famous. My idols were Sharukh Khan and Cristiano Ronaldo. Also, I am really grateful that I grew up in a family that was keen on cultural roots, ethical grounds, and values. I reminisce about the quality time of cousins staying at the Nani’s, with non-technology fun surrounding us, including games and street cricket.
SD: When was the first instance you felt you were meant for the entertainment world?
Ahsan: I remember I was in 9th standard when I used to often watch acting and content-creating videos so one day I just opened my camera and started making a video, I edited it and uploaded it. I got 10 views and I realized I could make videos; from that day I started practicing content creation.
SD: While pursuing your goals, did you face any setbacks?
Ahsan: I have faced so many issues from family relatives and my friends would also bully me in front of the class and even my university teachers who always had issues with my dressing and my mindset related to the entertainment industry.
SD: What has been the most rewarding element about going into acting?
Ahsan: Acting is one of the most rewarding and exciting things a person can take on. A good actor can become anything he or she wants to be as long as they have a creative imagination. Have you ever wondered what it would be like being PM of Pakistan or a homeless person begging for spare change at your local gas station? You can have the experience of being both, and still go home to your normal life. What other kind of career can offer that
SD: Do you feel Pakistan’s drama industry is progressing and branching into meaningful stories?
Ahsan: Yes Pakistan’s drama industry is now presenting stories that are relatable to our society.
SD: As a social media personality, how do you try to keep an edge on your videos?
Ahsan: Before I make any video I always think that my audience is mostly teenagers so I try to make content that is suitable for them and for the family as well. I always make relatable content that people can watch and connect with through a plethora of emotions.
SD: What is your mantra for dealing with trolls and the negativity that ensues?
Ahsan: I usually try to ignore all the negativity because I know that if you have haters or trollers it means you are doing something good, if everyone is positive, it means you need to make some changes.
SD: Would you consider venturing into films?
Ahsan: Yes obviously; it’s a full-time job and very hard to do but I already have done some short films. Also, I have done one drama on Hum TV with Angeline Malik
SD: How would you describe your dream role?
Ahsan: I would love to play an emotional heartbroken person who is suffering from family issues or love issues.
SD: Looking at the current economic turmoil engulfing the country, how do you try to keep yourself and your followers moving forward in a positive pursuit?
Ahsan: Whatever is happening or will happen to this country, first we have to admit in our mind that “This is our Pakistan”. We have to play a vital role in it. As a social media personality, I am always trying to show a positive image of our country.
SD: What do you aspire to attain in 2024?
Ahsan: My target is to become the most famous actor in Pakistan.
IN A GLANCE
What is your absolute superpower?
I can adapt to things very quickly
Your favorite digital personality?
My wife Dr. Madiha Khan
A director you wish to work with?
Abdullah Kandawani
The one thing that is a mood killer?
Hot weather
Three things you have with you all the time?
Perfume, Wallet, bands
Morning Person or Late Nights Enthusiast
Late night enthusiast
Desi Wear or Western
I love both
Deepest Fear
Airplane crash
Biggest Regret
I was a fast bowler and had U19 trails but couldn’t pursue cricket
Someone you wish to meet
Ranveer Singh
Top 3 things on your bucket list
Make my body
Buy my own house
A hit drama
The best thing about your work
We can make content on anything anywhere anytime
The worst thing about your work
During certain scenes, we have to switch off all the fans and AC in Summers
Your favorite movie
Maula Jutt
What people don’t know about you?
I can be a shy and bold person at the same time
Your dream destination
Saudi Arabia