Tired of same old scripts, Samiya Mumtaz sheds light on decision to play Fatima Jinnah

Actor will be seen in upcoming series, 'Fatima Jinnah: Sister | Revolutionist | Stateswoman'

Renowned actor Samiya Mumtaz recently shared her experience portraying the role of Fatima Jinnah in a play based on the life and struggles of the sister of Madar-e-Millat. Mumtaz's portrayal captures the political leader's life spent in Pakistan, shedding light on her significant contributions. "I will be playing her old age," highlighted Mumtaz in a BBC Urdu interview. "In this series, I have portrayed the different sides of her life based on history and facts, whether they are positive or negative."

Mumtaz further expressed her perspective on the current state of Pakistani dramas. Frustrated with the limited themes in TV dramas, she turned her attention to different characters in the digital media landscape, one of which is her role as Fatima Jinnah.

"In our dramas nowadays, only love, marriage, mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, and divorce are shown. Dramatists should understand that these are small aspects of life. As a society, we have so many problems, but nobody talks about those issues. That's why I got tired of TV dramas and started working on different characters in digital media. One of them is the character of Fatima Jinnah," expressed Mumtaz.

The actor disclosed her approach to preparing for the role, including her intention to portray Jinnah in her later years. With meticulous research, she incorporated historical records and anecdotes shared by those who knew the mother of the nation to bring depth to her portrayal.

"I will depict all the different aspects of her personality," revealed Mumtaz. "She was not an ordinary woman. She was a 'Bombay Girl.' She lived in a hostel during her younger years. Additionally, I will show the dynamics of her relationship with Ruttie Jinnah in Muhammad Ali Jinnah's house. There are various dimensions to her character that people will get to see."

Dedicated to authenticity, Mumtaz even practised walking while wearing a traditional gharara to capture the essence of Jinnah's style. She acknowledged the immense responsibility that comes with depicting such an influential figure and the challenges of embodying her distinct mannerisms."When I read the script, I felt that every aspect of her life should be presented to the public," said Mumtaz.

Addressing the context of presenting this drama amidst the current political landscape, Mumtaz acknowledged the intrigue it adds. The play delves into the political situation of Jinnah's time and the role of the military. Mumtaz hinted that the drama might address lingering questions about whether Jinnah's passing was due to natural causes.

Director Danial K Afzal shared insights into the research that informed the play's portrayal of the vital political leader. He emphasised her willingness to collaborate with anyone who sought Pakistan's success and development. Danial also drew attention to the political dynamics of the past, citing an anecdote where Mohammad Ali Jinnah asked Jawaharlal Nehru to care for his house when he left Malabar, displaying a unique bond between the two leaders. This cooperation stood in contrast to contemporary politics, reflecting a different era of statesmanship.

In a world where entertainment is both a reflection of and a catalyst for social change, Mumtaz's portrayal of Jinnah's life and the creative team's attention to historical accuracy contribute to a richer understanding of Pakistan's past and present. The upcoming series will not only resurrect a historical figure but also prompt contemplation on the changing fabric of politics and society over time.

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