I charge fees like a true celebrity and only take on lead roles: Sana Fakhar

LAHORE: Sana Fakhar has been one of Pakistan’s biggest box-office draws. The actor’s early role in Ye Dil Aap Ka Huwa brought her the prestigious Nigar award and she's since starred in many movies and TV serials.

Sana is one of the most refreshing faces on both the television and film screen, and has grabbed media attention for her high-profile celeb lifestyle. Happily married to actor Fakhar Imam, she's a mother of two kids.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/SANA FAKHAR

In conversation with The Express Tribune, the actor gets candid about her journey within showbiz, family life and future plans.

ET: How did you break into the film industry?

Sana Fakhar: I started with Syed Noor’s Sangam and found a strong footing with Jawed Sheikh’s huge blockbuster Ye Dil Aap Ka Huwa and the rest, is history.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ SANA FAKHAR

ET: There are many professions you could have gone into. What inspired you to become an actor?

SF: In any other profession, we can only really play one role and live one life. An actor’s life is different though; we live so many lives at once. While doing different roles, an actor starts transforming into those characters and starts living within the characters that they portray. Acting is the only profession which provides this sort of freedom and space and this is all I wanted to do.

ET: You've been working as fashion model, TV and film actor. Which of these tempts you the most?

SF: I'm a celebrity, not just a TV actor. When you become a celeb, you have to model. It just depends on how you carry the 'burden.' All of the three come to me as a complete package and I enjoy doing them all.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/ SANA FAKHAR

ET: Tell us about what you consider accomplishments within films and TV projects.

SF: One should be highly professional to achieve success and a noteworthy name - and my attitude is truly and consistently professional. I consider myself a success story as I have worked with sincerity. I've been sincere to my profession as I always fulfill my professional commitments and don’t let things go casually.

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ET: You started from Sangam, where do you see yourself in the future?

SF: I've done lots of movies and I'm still in the process of doing many more. My future looks like a lot of work! I love my job and respect my profession.

I've come a long way and have worked very hard to get to where I am today. I always try to give my best. I have learned a lot courtesy all these years in the industry and have experienced the unimaginable! But I don't let any of it get to my head; I work as hard as I did since day one.

ET: What type of roles do you prefer to take on?

SF: For me, it really depends on what the script is all about. I always prefer doing something new and creative. But, my role needs to be that of the lead character or I won't take it. I only accept lead roles.

I don’t take up roles just for the sake of work. I only choose those characters that excite, appeal and suit me - if they can afford me of course...

I charge like a true celeb. That’s why I do selective work. Once you're a celebrity, you must appear like one too.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/SANA FAKHAR

ET: You have portrayed many characters. Have you found any of them to reflect your own personality?

SF: I've done almost every kind of role but I can't relate to any of them, to be honest. However,  in the Ramazan special drama serial Sawab, I played the role of a young housewife Nimra who struggles to make everyone in her family happy. My mom and many others have commented that it resembles my real life story.

ET: Tell us about your upcoming projects.

SF: I'm currently working on the drama Apko Kya Taklif Hai, a movie Jackpot and another drama serial Seep - a story revolving around the nawab gharana where I'm playing one of the protagonists alongside Usman Peerzada and Shahroze Sabzwari. The project will go on air in mid-January or February.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/SANA FAKHAR

Besides all of this, I'm doing lots of other shows. I also do corporate shows, at home and abroad.

ET: Who is your favourite film director?

SF: I had the opportunity to work with many amazing directors including Sangeeta, Syed Noor and directors in India as well. But I personally believe that Jawed Sheikh is the best. I've done three films with him and enjoy a very good rapport with him. For me, he is the all-time best and my top favourite.

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ET: What would you class as your best-ever achievements?

SF: I'm trying to excel in my life every single day. I would say, however that becoming a mother was the best thing I've achieved. Also, I feel real accomplishments come to you when you become a mother and handle your personal life and career simultaneously. That's a true test and I have done it!

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/SANA FAKHAR

ET: How do you balance your work and personal life?

SF: I have a very happy family and wish peace and happiness to everyone who is just settling in.

I think working women are far better mothers than homemakers as they know how to balance their work and family life. I am quite satisfied with what I'm doing and how I'm managing it.

ET: What is your favourite pastime? 

SF: Obviously,  spending time with my family. There is nothing worth enjoying without my family. Whether it's my mum, sisters, husband, kids — I am a non-entity without them. My life revolves around all of them. They are my best friends, love... everything. I enjoy every moment with my family.

PHOTO: INSTAGRAM/SANA FAKHAR

ET: Do you have any regrets in life?

SF: No, not even one single regret. I've always done what I wanted, how I wanted - including my decisions about my career, marriage and kids. Thanks to Allah, I am living a desirable life and have achieved everything.



ET: How would you describe the person Sana Fakhar?

SF: She is someone who doesn’t follow others. People follow her. Yes there are people who inspire me and whom I admire and appreciate but I want to accomplish things to inspire others.

Everyone should own their individuality instead of replicating others. I've come so far because of my own capabilities - and it is purely a blessing.

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