A highly versatile actor who is known to take on roles of sheer depth and diversity, Noman Habib doesn’t for one second take his star status for granted. Because it is only he who knows what he had to endure to get here. And while he may have won the audience with his impeccable craft, be it Bhola in Yeh Zindagi Hai or his impressive performance alongside Saba Qamar in Bunty I Love You, here is an artist who is committed to his passion and continues to stride with the same energy and zeal, bringing forth roles that resonate with the audience time and again. Read On:
SD: Your first role as Bhola made such a huge impact – how did you create an edge to it?
Noman: The character of Bhola was actually already on air and being played by Fahad Mustafa. The series was supposed to conclude after 13 episodes. However it was decided to extend it further due to its popularity and when Fahad couldn’t continue with the same due to other commitments, I was able to take on the role. However I wished to bring my own creativity and edge to it. That is when I added a certain style to it which allowed me to own it and get my own recognition as Bhola.
SD: How did your interest arise in acting?When did you know you wished to join the drama industry?
Noman: I actually always wanted to learn acting. And while I didn’t take any professional classes, I did try to take on and learn key elements to how I can master this skill. One way in which I adapted my ways is by going to theatre performances. I learned a lot from the same. It helped me to gear up and learn the dynamics to what acting is and how I can bring my own distinctiveness to it.
SD: Did your initial years in the drama industry make you face certain setbacks?
Noman: See the thing is hardships are common and can be faced by anyone at any time. And yes in this industry, you have to face the tough phase of proving your mettle. And much like any newcomer, I too had to go through times of rejection and ridicule. I mean there was a certain director who said to my face “Noman you will never amount to anything and should just quit trying to be an actor.” That was extremely tough to endure and while I felt extremely disheartened, there were two paths to take from there. Either I quit my passion and leave this field completely or I prove those who discouraged me wrong. Thank God I chose the latter. For I never would have come to where I am now had I chosen to call it quits. Ironically enough, the very same director had contacted me about 6months ago, offering me a role he said he created with me in his mind. Talk about destiny!
SD: Holding a plethora of interesting roles till date, with what kind of criteria do you choose your projects now?
Noman: Well the script is definitely the most important element. However the kind of rapport you have with the director is also a crucial factor. But it all comes down to owning the character you are portraying and making it shine as yours with your complete input and interest.
SD: You gave such a stellar performance in Main Hoon Shahid Afridi. How was it working alongside Humayun Saeed?
Noman: It’s quite an interesting story. I was actually working on another project when I received a call from Humayun bhai. At first it seemed like a prank but when he started narrating the story and asked me if I’m interested, I was completely speechless. It was the first sports-based film in Pakistan and I will be getting to play the titular character. This just comes to show that you should never give up pursuing your dreams. Allah is watching you and surely sooner than later, you will get the success you deserve.
SD: You have also worked in India and made an impressive mark there too. How would you reflect on our relations going downhill with our neighboring country?
Noman: The sad thing is both countries have such incredibly talented artists. I mean people of India enjoy watching our dramas while we watch their movies. However due to the problems which arise from political agendas is what impacts the great art which generates from both sides. It is indeed unfortunate.
SD: Any new interesting projects you are currently working on?
Noman: Not just one, but alhamdulillah I have 5 major projects coming up, with one unveiling on a new channel in December. I am sure the audience would love and enjoy my roles which promise to keep my viewers entertained.
SD: You recently have also taken on the title of an entrepreneur by opening up a salon-how did that arise?
Noman: I am actually a very practical man. The covid era was definitely an eye opener and now that things have steadily been coming back to normal, I want to make sure that I can make use of my position to create a platform which provides financial stability to my wife and children. As you never know what the future holds. It is best to make use of your time and efforts which will ensure sustainability for your loved ones.
SD: How do you wish to step into 2023?
Noman: I wish to make the coming year much better than the last one. And with Allah’s will and my own persistence, I know it can and shall happen.
