TELEVISION’S NEW DREAM TEAM | HANIA AAMIR & FAHAD MUSTAFA | IN ‘KABHI MAIN KABHI TUM’
In this June issue of HELLO! Pakistan, we are thrilled to feature two of the most dynamic and beloved stars of our television industry, Hania Aamir and Fahad Mustafa. As they team up for their highly anticipated drama, “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum,” audiences are eager to witness the magic these powerhouse performers will bring to the screen for the very first time together.
Hania Aamir, known for her vibrant and heartfelt performances, steps into the shoes of Sharjeena, a disciplined and organized character crafted by the esteemed writer Farhat Ishtiaq. Hania brings her unique flair and depth to this role, embodying Sharjeena’s strength and relatability. In our exclusive interview, she shares her excitement about this project, the traditional look that helps her truly embody Sharjeena, and her unwavering belief in exploring and supporting one’s true calling.
Fahad Mustafa, making a grand return to television after years of focusing on films and hosting, brings to life Mustafa, a character celebrated for his laid-back and carefree attitude. Fahad’s ability to balance humor with genuine emotion is showcased brilliantly in this role, as he draws from his own life experiences and observations. He reveals the joy of portraying such a spontaneous character and the refreshing narrative that drew him back to the small screen. Together, Hania and Fahad navigate the contrasting dynamics of their characters, creating a chemistry that is both authentic and captivating. Their collaboration in “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum” promises to be a delightful treat for fans, blending heartfelt storytelling with exceptional performances. Join us as we delve into the journeys of Hania Aamir and Fahad Mustafa, exploring their motivations, inspirations, and the vibrant energy they bring to their craft. This cover story is not just a glimpse into their latest project, but a celebration of two artists who continue to push boundaries and redefine excellence in Pakistani drama.
HANIA AAMIR
Hania, you’ve captured hearts with your vibrant performances on TV and in films. Now, teaming up with Fahad Mustafa in this new drama is something your fans are eagerly anticipating. What excites you the most about this project, and how do you think this role will showcase a different side of your acting prowess?
More than anything, I’m excited about the fans who have been waiting for this project. This will definitely be a real treat for them, and also teaming up with the man himself, Mr. Fahad Mustafa, is an honor. I don’t know about the different side of my acting specifically in this project because it is a sweet story, and in such stories, I try and keep the character as natural and real as possible. I just hope everyone loves the project as a whole.
Your character ‘Sharjeena’ is very disciplined and organized How did you approach the challenge of making such a character both relatable and engaging for the audience?
Honestly, the credit here goes to the wonderful writer, Ma’am Farhat Ishtiaq, who has written all characters to perfection. They are real and relatable. I’m just hoping that I have been able to give life to the character as she had hoped. Your traditional look in this drama, as shared on social media, is truly striking.
How did this specific appearance help you embody your character, and did it influence your performance in any way?
Definitely. In my opinion, the wardrobe really adds to the character and helps the actor truly embody the character. Sharjeena is a simple girl, and the wardrobe team has tried their best to stay true to her essence.
If Sharjeena could give one piece of advice to someone about living a disciplined life, what would it be, and how do you personally resonate with that advice?
Sharjeena is not only disciplined, she has a leader-like aura around her. More than anything, she believes in believing in oneself even if nobody does. Her advice to anyone would be to discover their talents to the fullest and not give up just because no one believed in them. And I resonate with this advice on a deeper level. I absolutely believe in exploring oneself and helping myself and whoever I can in finding their true calling.
How does Sharjeena’s journey in “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum” differ from other characters you’ve played, and what unique challenges or insights did this role offer you?
Sharjeena is a strong individual. She has strong opinions. She’s someone who takes charge and responsibility for the people she cares about. Sharjeena’s journey has inspired me to believe and have faith no matter what the consequences, and I’m hoping it inspires and gives strength to anyone who doesn’t shy away from expressing their opinions.
Your Instagram posts often give us a glimpse into your vibrant personality. How did you bring your own unique flair to your character in this drama, and did any particular scenes allow you to showcase a side of yourself that your fans haven’t seen before?
Honestly, that only the fans can tell. I would give any credit that I receive for my performance to my amazing director, Badar Mehmood. He has always believed in me and my skill, and if he had not, I would not have been able to explore the character as deeply as I did.
Let’s say you were to host a dinner party for three of your favorite fictional characters. Who would you invite, and what kind of conversations do you imagine having with them?
That’s a fun question. Not to boast, but Rumi from Ishqiya would be the first person on the guest list. Second would be John from the film John, and the third would be Saima Chaudhry from the Takay Ki Baraat series. And if I could extend an invitation to a fourth person, then Murtasim from Tere Bin. What a crazy bunch that would be.
In the spirit of your creative journey, if you could create a playlist that represents the different phases of your acting career, what are three songs that would definitely make the list and why?
The first would be “Main Aisa Kyun Hoon” because, in my career initially, I felt like a misfit, and I believe this song really resonates with the 19-year-old me trying her luck at acting, not knowing too much, and going with the flow. The second would be “My Future” by Billie Eilish for the time when I started understanding and realizing that my love for myself and craft is bigger than the noise around me. The third phase would be “Aisa He Hun” by Hassan Raheem when I became comfortable with who I am as an individual and could easily speak to myself, check in with myself, and call myself out if I had done something that didn’t align with who I was as a person. Basically, just clarity with oneself. And these days, I think it’s “G.O.A.T.” by Diljit Dosanjh. Where I know who I am, what I want, and I live unapologetically enjoying my truest self.
Your roles often highlight your versatility. If you could collaborate with any director or actor from the past, who would it be, and what type of project do you think would best showcase both your talents?
Not from the past, but recently, if a production, acting, or direction has really moved me from Pakistan, it has to be John. I would love to work with the entire team because what they accomplished was absolute brilliance.
You’ve brought such a unique touch to every character you’ve played. If you could create a character based on a blend of your favorite traits from previous roles, what would they be like, and what kind of story would you want to tell with them?
Oh my. I don’t think I would want to change anything about my previous characters. If anything, I would want to incorporate Rumi’s playfulness, Daneen’s candidness, Sharjeena’s reasoning and discipline, and Nazo’s strength in my real life.
FAHAD MUSTAFA
Fahad, it’s been quite a ride since your last appearance on our cover in 2018. You’ve been dazzling us with your film performances, and now you’re back on the TV screen with an exciting new drama. What drew you back to television, and how does it feel to reunite with the small screen after such a successful run in movies?
It’s always great to be back on television. The TV screen has a different kind of magic and connection with the audience. What drew me back was the script of “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum.” It’s refreshing and offers a narrative that’s both engaging and relatable. Reuniting with TV feels like coming home, and I’m excited for the viewers to see what we’ve created.
Your character Mustafa in ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ is known for his non-serious and laid-back attitude initially. How did you tap into this carefree mindset, and did you draw inspiration from any real-life experiences or personalities?
Mustafa’s carefree nature was a joy to portray. I tapped into my own experiences from my younger days when life was more about fun and less about responsibilities. I also observed people around me who have a relaxed approach to life and incorporated those nuances into my character.
Considering Mustafa’s relaxed approach to life, were there any scenes that you found particularly challenging to keep light-hearted while still conveying depth and emotion
Absolutely. There were a few scenes where Mustafa had to deal with serious situations but in his unique, laid-back style. Balancing humor with genuine emotion is always challenging, but it’s also what makes the character so intriguing. It required a lot of subtlety to ensure the scenes didn’t lose their emotional impact.
If Mustafa had a motto or a life mantra, what do you think it would be, and why?
Mustafa’s life mantra would probably be, “Live and let live.” He’s someone who believes in enjoying life to the fullest while allowing others the space to do the same. It’s about embracing the moment and not taking things too seriously.
If you could spend a day in Mustafa’s shoes, what do you think would be the most fun or liberating part of living his life?
The most liberating part would be his ability to take life as it comes without overthinking. Mustafa’s spontaneous and carefree nature means he finds joy in the smallest of things, which is something we often forget to do in our busy lives.
If Mustafa could give Sharjeena one piece of advice on how to loosen up and enjoy life, what do you think it would be?
Mustafa would probably tell Sharjeena, “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Life’s too short to be serious all the time. Find your fun and hold onto it.” He’d encourage her to embrace spontaneity and let go of unnecessary worries.
How did you and Hania create and maintain the chemistry needed for such contrasting characters? Any fun improvisations that made it to the final cut?
Working with Hania was fantastic. We spent time understanding our characters and their dynamics, which helped build the chemistry. There were definitely moments of improvisation, especially during lighter scenes, that made it to the final cut. Those spontaneous interactions added a layer of authenticity to our performances.
If you were to create a signature fragrance inspired by your personality, what would it be called and what key notes would it have?
I’d call it “Essence of Life.” It would have fresh, vibrant notes of citrus and mint, combined with warm, earthy undertones of sandalwood and musk. It would reflect a balance of energy and groundedness, much like how I approach life.
Considering your impressive range of roles, if you could step into the shoes of any literary character for a day, who would it be and what unique experiences or lessons would you hope to gain from their world?
I’d love to step into the shoes of Atticus Finch from “To Kill a Mockingbird.” His sense of justice, moral integrity, and empathy are truly inspiring. Experiencing his world would be a lesson in understanding the complexities of human nature and standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
Imagine you’re writing a memoir. What would the title be, and what’s the opening line?
The title would be “Moments in Time.” The opening line would be, “In the journey of life, it’s the moments that define us, the people who shape us, and the dreams that drive us forward.” It’s a reflection of how every experience has contributed to who I am today.
INTERVIEW: SUNDUS UNSAR RAJA
STYLING: AARINDA TUL NOOR
PHOTOGRAPHER: UMAIR BIN NISAR
FAHAD'S HAIR: QAMAR ZAMAN
FAHAD'S MAKEUP: AYAZ SYED
HANIA'S HAIR & MAKEUP: NABILAS