Fawad has India's love, Vaani admits

Bollywood actor gushes over Pakistani heartthrob

Vaani Kapoor is recognised for her award-winning debut in the romantic comedy film Shuddh Desi Romance as Tara, as well as other notable roles in films such as Befikre and Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui.

Recently, she was interviewed by Haroon Rashid on BBC Asian Network and, among other things, was questioned about the prospect of working with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. Since she could not confirm any rumours, she was instead asked about her excitement regarding the possibility.

"I love his work! I've seen a couple of his shows on streaming platforms. Back in the days I used to watch them with my mum, and I love him!" the 36-year-old actor enthused, referring to Fawad's internationally acclaimed drama serials. The Pakistani actor is adored for the memorable leading characters he brought to life in Humsafar and Zindagi Gulzar Hai.

The 42-year-old actor made his Bollywood debut in 2014 as Vikram Singh Rathore in comedy-drama film Khoobsurat. He is also well-regarded for his singing career as the vocalist and songwriter for Pakistani rock band Entity Paradigm (EP).

Just this year, Filmfare revealed insider information regarding an on-screen collaboration between Fawad and Vaani in the works. The production of this film is rumoured to kick off in London, marking the exciting likelihood of Fawad's long-awaited return to Indian cinema.

The War actor is no stranger to Fawad's impact on South Asian enthusiasts. "The audiences here in India have loved him for the artist that he is and the craft that he possesses and the fact that he's supremely talented as an artist," Vaani gushed, expressing her fondness for the Kapoor & Sons actor at length.

"I see an artist as an individual, for the work that they do. I admire that," she elaborated. "And I try to look at it in a way, barring all these XYZ factors attached to anybody. One should just see an artist for who he or she is. And I respect that."

Despite the political dispute plaguing India and Pakistan for decades, numerous artists and consumers on both sides of the border have hardly been deterred, consuming both Pakistani and Indian artistry as they please. When asked if she is Team Humsafar or Team Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Vaani responded, "I love them both, I do. I can't differentiate!"

"I think he's a phenomenal actor," she concluded, neither fuelling the rumours nor denying them, which leaves space for fans to imagine what they will. Even if no big-screen production is planned for the two actors, Vaani's fond comments for Fawad are sure to resonate with many hearts.