Durdana is one of the most memorable faces from the 80s film era. PHOTO: FILE
Durdana Rehman, once a screen-siren of Pushto and Punjabi movies, recently returned to the silver screen with latest film, Fiker Not. The actor, who at one time was popular for her potentially back-breaking dance moves, chose to end the hiatus by working on the film alongside her daughter, singer-actor Maham Rehman.
Released on March 11, the Asma Butt directorial featured a cast of newcomers, with the exception of Durdana. Maham, who recently launched her debut music album, lent her voice for the film’s soundtrack. “Nowadays my primary focus is my daughter,” said Durdana. “After receiving great feedback for her work on Fiker Not, she has received a host of offers for films and dramas. However, I’ve advised her to first complete her education, which is undoubtedly more important at this point.” As of now, Durdana is herself busy working on a few Pushto projects and promises good quality work to her fans.
The actor expressed concerns over the progress of Pakistani cinema in comparison to that of films being made in neighbouring countries. “Despite the many issues, our movies did dominate back in the 70s. What I fail to understand is that today, when we have young film-makers who had studied film abroad, we’re lagging behind,” shared Durdana.
The actor was of the opinion that in order to change things for the better, it is imperative to rid the industry of the mafia that has made it difficult for newcomers to break in.
Durdana, who has a number of successful films such as Dostana, Reshmi Rumaal, Silsila, Daagh, and Lofar to her credit, said that actors of the past understood the true meaning of dedication, struggle and hard work and it reflected in their films. “The success of a project depends on the efforts of the producer, director, script writer, music director and the actors,” explained Durdana.
“The secret behind Bollywood’s success is their exemplary teamwork. Without unity, we cannot achieve anything, and it is most sad that certain members of our industry still refuse to see eye to eye.”
Another factor hindering the success of Pakistani movies, according to the actor, is the outdated technology that film-makers continue to rely on. “Despite everything, I am hopeful that the new generation will bring about a revival of our dying industry,” said Durdana. “There is no lack of talent in Pakistan and if we learn from our mistakes, we can easily overcome all hurdles.”
In order to turn things around, Durdana also feels it is essential for the government to play its part by establishing new studios and building better cinemas to promote local productions.
The actor belongs to a family that has long been associated with the film industry. Her husband Aslam Dar was among Lollywood’s most eminent producers, and her father-in-law, MS Dar was a prominent director of his time. Actors Nadia Ali and Sheen are Durdana’s sister and niece, respectively.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 22nd, 2016.
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