Exclusive:
“I have always chosen quality over quantity…”
HUMAYUN SAEED
A Pakistani Actor & Producer
One of television’s busiest actors today, Humayun Saeed is known for his ability to effectively play both optimistic and pessimistic characters and for his professionalism, dedication and commitment. Thanks to a hopeful outlook and his cheerful nature, Humayun continues to gain popularity in the industry as well as amongst Pakistani and international audiences like now his new film ‘Bin Roye’ premiered in USA and India also. In an exclusive interview, for the Pakistan Observer’s Sunday weekly Social Diary magazine, he talks about his looks, acting, Pakistani & Indian cinema, the casting couch and his current projects.
How was the experience of working in ‘Bin Roye’?
It was a great experience. The entire team felt like family, and we all worked so hard on the movie that it will always be a very memorable experience for me.
Your acting stint in every drama & movie is so amazing. Do you think you’ve done an equally good job in your recent film?
Well, all I can say is that I have given it my 100%. It is now up to the audience to decide whether I did justice or not.
‘Bin Roye’ is the movie in which you worked with much passion. Any difficulties you have faced?
There were no difficulties as such. The only thing was that this movie involved a lot of traveling, especially for promotions. This year I didn’t even get to celebrate Eid in Pakistan as I was in the USA for the premiere of ‘Bin Roye’. However, the response of the audience has made everything worth it.
With only few dramas and films, you’ve become a major name in Pakistani Cinematic Industry. What is the reason behind that?
I think it’s because I have always chosen quality over quantity. I don’t sign every project that comes my way. Another thing that I have learnt in this industry is that there are many factors involved in making a good play, which is why I consider everything when signing a project. The script, director, production house, co-actors…Everyone makes a difference.
How excited are you for your upcoming film, “Jawaani Phir Nahe Ani”?
I am very excited as an actor and as a producer. Jawani Phir Nahin Ani is the perfect movie for audiences to watch this Eid-ul-Azha with their families. It is fun, glamorous and very entertaining. It is a fine film and I hope everyone would enjoy it.
What is your family life like? Have they given a lot of moral support to perform in showbiz?
My family life is great. My father was a little hesitant when I was joining the industry as I already had a stable job. However, when he saw my passion for my work and the response of the audience, he accepted my decision fully.
Your perfect Sunday?
My perfect Sunday would definitely be at home with my family.
As now you are so popular and known to be a superstar in film industry, so do you wish sometimes, that lets be that old ordinary Humayun again?
Of course, I mean such is the nature of humans that we always crave for what we don’t have. I am very grateful for everything that I have been blessed with, but sometimes I do miss my younger days.
Do you find it easy to memorize your lines?
Yes, thankfully I have never struggled with memorizing my lines.
As you do acting in dramas & movies, so what difference you see in both sectors?
In terms of acting, there is no difference as such. The difference comes in during the production. The canvas of movies is much bigger.
How do you feel when your fans recognize you and want to talk to you or take your autograph?
I feel very blessed.
3 secrets behind your fitness?
I eat well, I work regularly and most of all I stay focused. I don’t make any excuses. If I am traveling and don’t have access to the gym, I will just go on a jog.
Who is your favorite singer and why?
I really like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. He is a very good human being, very humble down to earth – which reflects in his voice. His singing is only getting better with time, and I don’t think there’s a better singer in South Asia right now.
If you weren’t the artiste, what would you have been?
I would love to run an NGO for physically handicapped people. In fact, it is something that I plan to do. I feel we don’t have any such avenues in Pakistan for them.
What makes you impatient?
Fakeness. I really cannot stand it.
What are your leisure time activities?
I spend my free time at home with family. I really enjoy watching world cinema. I also like dining out so we do that frequently.
Favorite holiday destination?
Spain
Your fans would love to know about your future plans and projects. What’s next for Humayun Saeed?
Well, Jawani Phir Nahin Ani is releasing on the coming Eid-ul-Azha. Then there is Yalghaar releasing in December. I am also making my comeback on TV next year. There’s a lot in the pipeline to watch out for!
For the love of Humayun’s personal choice:
The role you haven’t done yet and would love to do is?
There are so many! I feel like there is so much out there that I am yet to explore.
Favorite restaurant?
I love Noorani Kebab House in Karachi.
Favorite co-star?
I cannot think of one. I get along with almost all my co-stars.
How do you CELEBRATE your victories?
With my close friends and family.
When are you happiest?
When my family is happy with my work.
“There are many factors involved in making a good play, which is why I consider everything when signing a project. The script, director, production house, co-actors…Everyone makes a difference.”
“I spend my free time at home with family. I really enjoy watching world cinema …”
