I would love to work in Pakistan again, says actor Shabnam

Legendary actor talks making film comeback, eagerness to influence new generations

KARACHI: On February 15, Pakistan Film and TV Journalists Association (PFTVJA) held a media meeting to welcome legendary film actor Shabnam to Pakistan. The ceremony, held at Karachi Press Club (KPC), saw PFTVJA chairman Ather Jawed Sufi, president Abdul Wasi Qureshi, KPC president Siraj Ahmed and secretary Maqsood Yousufi welcome the star, along with fellow veteran actor Mustafa Qureshi.

Sufi, Wasi and Ahmed thanked Shabnam for visiting Pakistan once again. Addressing the attendees, Mustafa said the Aina actor was back home now. “I thank her for her years and years of commendable contributions to the industry.”

Shabnam visited Pakistan in 2012 with her husband Robin Ghosh, a veteran singer of Lollywood who passed away last year. “Even today when I see you, I see Robin. And whenever I saw Robin, I saw you in him. You still live in our hearts as you did before,” stated Mustafa.



Hoping Shabnam would work in Pakistani films again, Mustafa revealed Shabnam had earned herself a great legacy and proved her talent relentlessly throughout the years. “I urge our producers to make use of Shabnam’s talent. I’m hoping they would offer roles and showcase her art to the new generation.” He also added, “We should keep our cultural exchange and relations with Bangladesh open.”

Before it was Shabnam’s turn to speak, she was presented an ajrak by the hosts. “When I came in 2012, I saw how so many people still loved me,” she said, adding that she was so overwhelmed and grateful for it. “But this time around, even more people expressed their love. I’m especially eager to meet the younger generation of fans this time.”

Teary eyed, she said this was the first time she had visited Pakistan without her husband and it clearly upset her. “It really hurts to be here without Robin.” Regarding acting again in Pakistani films, Shabnam said, “I would love to work in Pakistan again if I’m offered good roles.” However, she emphasised she couldn’t do anything for the revival of cinema all by herself. “It will require team work,” she asserted.



Hosts and journalists presented her with bouquets and gifts to end the ceremony. Shabnam, who resides in Bangladesh, has worked in numerous super hit Pakistani films in the past. Having made her debut in the 1950s, she has worked in more than 150 films – in Urdu, Bengali and the Punjabi language, in her four-decade long career. She also holds the record of winning the newly-resuscitated Nigar Awards 13 times.

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