There is a difference between being a rebel and standing up for your rights: Alizeh Shah

Actor reflects on challenges faced by girls and actors in the digital age

Alizeh Shah, the talented young actor known for her roles in the film Superstar and the television seriel Ehd-e-Wafa, has been captivating audiences with her mesmerising performances. In a recent interaction with Independent Urdu, Shah candidly shared her thoughts on her aspirations, memorable experiences, challenges faced by women and artists in the digital age and avoiding interviews.

"Acting is one thing, but when you have to talk in front of the camera as Alizeh Shah yourself, it's difficult. I get nervous, so I try to avoid interviews," Shah confessed.

About her ongoing television serial Mohabbat Ki Aakhri Kahani, in which she is supposedly playing the role of a 'rebel girl', Shah informed, “There is a difference between being a rebel and standing up for your rights. When you watch this drama, you will see how standing up for oneself makes a difference and it will also give this message to young girls, who are afraid to fight for their rights.”

When discussing the criticism faced by women and Pakistani artists on social media, Shah acknowledged the existence of both appreciative and malicious individuals: "You can't do anything about it, there is no solution. If five people priase you, there will always be 10 haters. You will have to become thick-skinned." She encouraged fellow artists to focus, instead, on the positive messages, and the trust and support they receive.

Shah also hypothesised that the pressure faced by the nation might be affecting the level of respect given to individuals, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and understanding society. “One of the reasons could be that the whole nation is under pressure right now, and no one's willing to give each other the respect they deserve.”

Shah, whose acting journey began at the age of six when she starred in a TV commercial opposite the legendary Wasim Akram, has come a long way since. She can laugh about things that happened in the past and speak freely about what still bothers her. About her first TV advert, she fondly recalled an embarassing anecdote involving spilling juice in front of everyone while filming. Four years later, when she had the opportunity to work with Akram again, she felt honoured that he still remembered her. Shah expressed her desire to collaborate with him in a film, though she was unaware that Akram recently made his film debut with Money Back Guarantee.

Apart from acting, Shah revealed her interest in singing and writing, and expressed her regret at not being able to personally receive her first award as the Best Emerging Actress at a local award show. “To this day, I regret that it was the first award of my life but I could not receive it myself,” she said. She also shared her passion for dancing and her first-ever onstage performance at an award show in 2021. She performed alongside singer and actor Ali Zafar, about whom she said, “He was very supportive.” 

The Mere Dil Mere Dushman actor also expressed her desire to work with star and heartthrob, Fawad Khan. “Although, I haven’t his The Legend of Maula Jatt yet. Time he nahi milta (there is no time!)” she laughed.

However, she mentioned that despite her appearance in Superstar, her parents are not yet comfortable with her doing films or dancing. Shah recollected only agreeing to Superstar because of director and producer Momina Duraid, who persuaded her. She maintained that she would not do any film for the next couple years, emphasising on the need for patience, "I’m just 21-years-old. I have my whole life ahead of me. So, what's the hurry?" she asked.

Shah's journey as an actor showcases her determination, talent, and versatility. While navigating the challenges of fame and personal aspirations, she continues to impress audiences with her performances and captivate their hearts. As she embarks on new projects and embraces her artistic journey, fans eagerly await her future endeavours.

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