The eccentric and animated Mohsin Abbas Haider

Actor-singer talks about his role in Jawad Bashir’s upcoming rom-com ‘Teri Meri Love Story’

KARACHI:

Mohsin Abbas Haider has been part of the media fraternity for a good 10 years. It was only when he played the eccentric Punjabi boy, Moon, in the caper-comedy Na Maloom Afraad (NMA) that he managed to draw attention towards his talents.

Post-NMA life has been pleasant for Mohsin. The success of the film meant more offers were never a problem. However, slowing down has been a conscious decision. Aiming to make the most of his run of form, both in film and TV, he has put pen to paper for Teri Meri Love Story, a romantic comedy being helmed by funnyman Jawad Bashir.



Talking to The Express Tribune about his role in the upcoming film, the occasional singer-cum-actor shared his excitement about the prospects of working with Jawad whose style he has always looked up to. “Whether it’s Dr Aur Billa, College Jeans or VJ, his works have been admirable. So the offer to star in Teri Meri Love Story was almost a no-brainer for me,” maintained the actor.



With the way things are shaping up for the film, chances are that Mohsin may be seen rubbing shoulders with some of the most renowned and celebrated actors of the industry, namely Mohib Mirza, Salman Shahid, Junaid Khan and most likely Syra Shehroz as well. While many a newcomers may feel overwhelmed by this opportunity, Mohsin on the other hand believes that his acting style makes him somewhat tailor-made for comic roles. “You see, I’m a very besharam actor. I don’t get overawed by my fellow co-stars.”

Citing his performance in NMA as a case in point, he noted how a relatively unknown actor was able to hold his own in the presence of Fahad Mustafa, Javed Sheikh, Salman Shahid and Nayyer Ejaz.

He is of the view that no excuses can be given for a below-par performance. “I couldn’t have to go to the homes of the audiences and explain that I was not able to give my best shot simply because legends like Javed Sheikh were around me. That is not on,” he added.



However, he is not one of those who deny the positive influence of their seniors. Mohsin credits Javed and Salman for encourageing him to perform to the best of his abilities.



While NMA saw him essay the role of a loud and animated character, Mohsin said the college boy that he is playing in Teri Meri Love Story is a far cry from Moon. However, he said he will not have to prepare too much. “I may look old but I’ve just come out of college. Even the dust from my boots is yet to be removed,” he laughingly stated. He quickly added that his college life will greatly help him slide under the skin of his character.

A trained musician from the National Academy of Performing Arts (Napa), Mohsin’s singing tone is termed suitable for playback singing. The Mazaqraat star did lend his voice for one of NMA’s tracks, Sapno Ki Maala. If things do pan out as planned, he will once again be stepping into the vocal booth, this time for Jawad’s film.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 9^th,  2015.

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