It's been a while since we saw Bilal Ashraf onscreen. The actor starred in Ehteshamuddin's directorial Superstar opposite Pakistani sweetheart Mahira Khan in 2019. The reel life couple's chemistry became a focal point in the film's success and many had hoped to see them sharing the screen together once again. The audience finally saw the duo starring in ISPR’s latest outing, Aik Hai Nigar.
The recent biopic is based on the life and career of Pakistan Army's first and only female, three-star General Lieutenant General, Nigar Johar. Khan played the role of Nigar while Ashraf essayed the character of Nigar’s husband, Johar. While Khan’s casting faced some legitimate questions in terms of representation, Ashraf’s casting was described by many as closer to reality.
For a story as complex and brave as Nigar's, the 46-year-old actor played the crucial yet challenging role of a support system and life partner. The telefilm follows Johar's journey from his younger days in the army to a supportive husband. The on-point casting for the role of Nigar’s husband was first noticed upon the release of the official poster and teaser.
Ashraf, previously in a post, lauded Johar as a partner who was supportive of his wife. "A real man is someone who loves, supports, understands his woman," he penned, adding, "[he] is her strength, he sacrifices his own happiness for his woman. Doesn’t show ego or doesn’t try to compete with her but steps up and helps her grow and evolve."
Ashraf went on to add, "Thank you, Sir Johar, for this wonderful lesson. You were a true gentleman and a real hero. Ma'am Nigar, you are a source of inspiration for us all."
Now, in an interview with Urdu News, Ashraf stated, "It was a challenge, mentally, emotionally and physically.” Explaining why he took up Johar's part, he said, “I had the opportunity to do something different, not only as a hero but also as a young and then middle-aged man. It was all part of the challenge.”
The telefilm was well received amongst critics and fans. While some showed reservations with the telefilm's underwhelming final product, the actors’ performances were praised by everyone.
Ashraf also made his small screen debut with Aik Hai Nigar. And according to the Yalghaar actor, the praise he received was beyond his expectations. “It [the telefilm] is also trending these days on YouTube," he said.
On the other hand, speaking about the criticism the film has received, the actor shared, "If anyone has criticised, it is his personal choice. Of course, every project has its own set of problems. I just found my role challenging, so I did it and had a lot of fun."
When asked about the switch from films to TV and if there was a significant difference between the two mediums for him, he confessed that he doesn't “care about big or small screens.” Ashraf assured, "Only the camera is a little different. The hard work we have to put in remains the same.” The Janaan star is content with simply performing and growing as an actor. And if another challenging new experience comes his way, “he will gladly accept the role regardless of the medium.”
Moreover, the actor is all set to star in a television serial with Sana Javed. When asked if he has any specific fellow actors he would prefer to work with, Ashraf said, "All actresses are very talented. I don't see who I'm paired with and which project is offered with whom. I will do whatever I feel I am interested in."
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