C oming from a family of influentials who have made a strong mark in the world of media by conducting a show which was based on sign language for deaf and mute, Madiha knew she was destined to take the legacy further . Committed to her craft, she is known to have made a significant impact in the drama industry ever since she starred in Partition Aik Safar, one of the most expensive TV dramas ever produced in Pakistan. While she continues to love her work, she is clear on where to draw the line when making friends in the media. Know more from our intriguing conversation:
SD: Share with our readers what it was like growing up in your house?
Madiha: I am blessed to be a part of this family. Being the youngest one I never faced any difficulties in life. My parents were self-made and taught us how to live life with confidence and strong belief. If you think you are less then others then overcome and be the best and become whatever you choose for yourself. My father was deaf yet he provided us with everything. He is an inspiration not for us but to the people of Pakistan. His disability never stops him from achieving anything in life and he taught the same to us.
SD: What memories do you have of seeing your parents conduct the show ‘Boltay Haath’?
Madiha: I have many related memories. I used to go with them to PTV while they recorded their show. I used to take my toys and sit outside the studio in Islamabad and play. Every single person respects my parents and loves me. I did a few shows of Boltay Haath as well. We were also paid for each show and Ami Abu usually gave us the money for the work we do in the program. Abu always says : ‘ do your job and get paid for it’ this way we learnt that sitting idle at home and doing nothing won’t bring you luck. So we studied hard, knowing one day we would also become like our parents and we have succeeded at some point.
SD:When was the first time you knew you wanted to get into the field of entertainment?
Madiha: From the very first time I stepped inside the studio of Boltay Haath,I knew this is my place and one day I will become an actor. My manifestation came to life and I became a household name of Pakistan at the age of 18.
SD: Share with us the experience of working on your first project?
Madiha: I’ve been selected amongst 500 auditions in Pakistan/India by Geo entertainment. Allah has always been kind to me; He has always made a path for me and provided me with the best source of people to work with so I never had to go through a struggling period. Rana Shaikh, my mentor, saw me and signed me for Partition Aik Safar’s main lead and thus my journey began.
SD: Partition Aik Safar, one of the most expensive TV dramas ever produced in Pakistan- did it overwhelm you to give a great performance?
Madiha: Of course; I was overwhelmed working with such a top renowned cast. The sets and costumes and the protocol was super overwhelming. I was under the pressure 24/7 to give my best even if I am acting with the stars. I memorized my whole script with excitement. I worked under so much pressure of delivering the best and achieved what I wished for.
SD: Any major setbacks you had to face while making a strong position for yourself?
Madiha: Not when I started, ‘I came and I conquered’ . Usually actors face setbacks when they leave the industry for a good period of time and try to make a comeback. Then only you face setbacks and trust me, coming back wasn’t easy for me. Media is no one’s friend. Every single person blames the media. My question is who is the media? It’s us who make it and we ruin the image of the media by being our ugly selves while being in power. We lack the respect and honour for seniors or juniors. At least learn from your neighbor country -how they admire their actors. At least give the devil his due. We are casting people not on talent now but very much on Tiktok/YouTube/ Instagram. This is how you get work. It doesn’t matter if you know how to act or not or how famous you are. They only cast you if you are in the list of their favourites. Be a part of the lobby to become a part of the drama.
SD: Who do you credit as your inspiration to continue giving your best in this field?
Madiha: My parents without any doubt. They were, are and will be my inspiration to give my best.
SD: Would you ever consider joining the movie industry?
Madiha: It might depend on the subject.
SD: What is the one thing you wish to change about the drama industry and why?
Madiha: I want the drama industry to know the worth of human beings.
IN A GLANCE
What is your absolute super power?
I am a multi tasker
A director you want to work with?
Nadeem Baig
An actor you wish to work with?
Amir khan
The one thing that is a mood killer?
Fake people
Three things you have with you all the time?
Mobile, glasses and perfume
Your favorite serial?
There are many
Morning Person or Late Nights Enthusiast
Both it depends on my schedule, mostly late nights
Desi Wear or Western
Western mostly
Deepest Fear
Death
Biggest Regret
Making friends with your enemies
Most Prized Possession
My father’s art work collection
Biggest Strength
My family
Someone you wish to meet?
Sheikh Mohammed (king of Dubai) I am impressed by how he developed his country from nothing . He really Inspires me.
Top 3 things on your bucket list
Travel to Prague
Change my house’s interior
Own a new car
The best thing about your work
Fame, respect and money
The worst thing about your work?
Even your friends are not your friends. People in the media have many faces
A drama you wish you had been a part of
Takay ki baraat which I was offered and due to dates I didn’t do
What people don’t know about you?
I am an expert in Pakistan and American sign language and working for deaf community as well.
The craziest rumor you heard about yourself
I have babies ( who are actually my nephews and nieces)
Your dream destination
Mykonos
