A perfect passion to perform on-screen

TALENTED TV SUPERSTAR HINA KHAN SETS HER SIGHT ON CINEMA WITH NEW FILM

by ASJAD NAZIR

THE biggest stars from Indian cinema light up the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival every year in designer outfits and striking looks that captivate all.

In 2019, it wasn’t just the A-list Bollywood leading ladies who got the most positive attention and made the most noise, but small screen siren Hina Khan. The Indian beauty blazed a trail of fire on the red carpet, and whilst all the other stars were just striking poses, she launched the first look poster of her debut film Lines.

After conquering television with hit serials and reality shows, the gifted actress is looking forward to a number of high profile film projects and has a dedicated fan base.

Eastern Eye caught up with in-demand star Hina Khan to talk about her journey, inspiration, hopes, fan base and that magical Cannes Film Festival appearance.

What inspires you?

The first light at dawn! I try my best to be the person who sleeps motivated. I think it’s time effective to be motivated as you go off to sleep, so the moment you wake up, you are all charged up. I always need a purpose in life because that’s the directive force and fuel that will push you forward. My work, my colleague’s work, the benchmarks of the people I admire, both professionally and socially, inspire me to find my calling and it’s not just one calling!

What do you mean?

I believe I am able to do more and that’s why I want more. I am smart enough to know that I will have to do more to fulfil my calling and that inspires me today and each day!

Why do you love being an actress?

Firstly, it’s natural! For me acting is a safe place. I was always meant to become an actor, and it is the best thing I would have done. I get to play characters and live through the experiences of those characters. It gives me a perspective in life to do better and teaches me what I was doing wrong. I love acting because I get to live like some undercover special agent. It’s always thrilling to be able to portray someone you are not!

Tell us more?

I also grow as a human being in a layered sort of way, and it provides my family and me everything I could’ve asked for. I am thankful to the almighty that I am an actor and would like to think a fairly good one too.

Do you have a dream role?

As I said, I just love the process of interpreting my version of the characters I play on screen; so why should I just pick one? I am a hungry seeker in that case. But to name a few, I would love to play a cop, a super hero, ninja warrior, dream girl, a princess, a queen such as Cersei in Game Of Thrones, a scientist and rock star!

How did you feel facing the camera for the first time?

Like anytime, when anyone tries something new, I had butterflies in my stomach but also excitement to do my best in this journey I was about to begin.

How do you look back on your amazing journey on television?

It’s been a fabulous journey, and I am glad to have gathered so much love from my audience. There have been a lot of challenges, ups and downs, but yes, through it all, I have consistently given it my best.

What is the biggest lesson television has taught you?

Nothing lasts forever! Hence, one has to keep going, keep on working hard and keep entertaining your audience.

Is there one moment on that journey which is the most special?

I cannot pinpoint one such moment, but yes, the most memorable definitely was walking down the Cannes red carpet. I have been following the prestigious film festival for years and for me, to be there in front of all the international media, celebrities and such talented content creators from all over the world were definitely a ‘pinch me, is this real?’ moment.

You received so much positive attention globally for your appearance at the Cannes Film festival earlier this year. How did that feel and did you imagine making such an impact?

It was wonderful! Like I said, I had been following the festival for years and couldn’t believe that my dream of being here one day was finally coming true. I don’t like to pre-empt reactions. I went in knowing I was living my dream and the rest followed.

How did you choose your stunning Cannes outfits?

The hard work for the outfits had begun months before the festival. However, my final outfits were locked after I reached Cannes. We were lucky enough to have international designers on board. The looks had to be set once I was there.

What was the most magical moment from your Cannes trip?

The love that poured in from my fraternity as well as the fans! I was flooded with messages about how proud everyone was and that made the entire moment all the more special.

How did you feel launching your movie Lines there?

It was a huge honour! Lines is a film that is extremely close to my heart, and I’m glad that not only was I attending the festival, but also showcasing the poster of my upcoming film there.

Tell us about the film and character you play?

The story is set in Kashmir in the 1990s. I play the character of Nazia who is an independent and responsible girl.

Is the master plan to move to movies or will you also keep doing television?

The master plan is to keep entertaining regardless of mediums! The audience doesn’t choose to watch or love you just due to the medium, but rather due to the quality of work you deliver.

You have achieved a lot, but what motivates you most today?

It is just to keep growing, to keep challenging myself and to keep satisfying the inner actor inside me.

Who would you love to work with?

I would love to work with Priyanka Chopra because I admire her for the woman she is.

What are your passions away from work?

I love to travel and I love to sing. I love spending time with my family.

Tell us something not many people know about you?

I am a simple family girl at heart!

Your fashion choices are always amazing. Would you ever consider something in that space?

Everything depends on what that ‘something’ is!

How much do your fans mean to you?

My fans are my backbone! They motivate me and keep me going. I’ve seen them fight the world for me.

Have you got used to having so many dedicated fans?

I don’t know about used to, but I thank my stars every day that I have the love of so many people from across the world.

What else can we expect from you?

Good work, challenging roles and avatars you have not seen me do before!