Muneeb Butt talks action film and Punjabi roots

Actor stresses on importance of joint family system

Muneeb Butt, who has been a prominent star on the small screen for a steady number of years, is now embarking on an even bigger venture as his career progresses. Speaking on Gup Shab with Vasay Chaudhry, he had much to share about his recent experiences, his present commitments, and what lies ahead in his journey as an actor.

Muneeb had some exciting news for cinephiles: he has been working on an action film alongside Amna Ilyas. And fun fact: this is his first time taking on a Punjabi-language feature. "I am Punjabi by birth. But since I was born and brought up in Karachi, I knew how to speak it, but my manner of speaking wasn't as clear as it is now," he revealed.

Imparting more insights on his familial roots, he clarified that his is a "proper Punjabi family". However, he's aware that the Butt community is fewer in number in Karachi compared to Lahore, with which the Shiddat actor associates a "euphoric feeling".

Going back to the film, he spoke more about following a rigorous fitness routine to meet the demands of the role. "Action sequences only look good when they make you believe that the character can beat up all these opponents," he said, citing that he needs to be in a certain shape for the audience to buy the fact that his stunts can send his foes flying.

"In the last fifteen to twenty days spell that we did, I followed a tough diet and exercise plan. I have played my part, now it's up to the public's viewpoint," he added.

On a humorous note, Muneeb's time on set came with the sacrifice of his suspension of disbelief when it comes to action sequences. "I told the director that I won't have the same level of fun watching action films anymore. Now I know how it's done, with all these cranes and other things!" he exclaimed.

The 32-year-old actor also had much to say about being an influencer alongside being an actor. "When you have enough of a following that people listen to you and if you can influence society in any way, then you do feel responsible to circulate something positive," he said.

Muneeb's positive outlook is also evident in how he perceives his bond with his family members. As someone who lives in a joint family system, he believes in the importance of having the company of parents in a home, rather than living away from them. For the Qalandar actor, elders play a key role in conflict resolution within the household, especially in the wake of a petty argument.

Citing an example, he elaborated, "If I'm in Lahore and away from home for days, I know that —God forbid— if any issue were to arise, my father and brother would handle it. So, I'm tension-free. If no one was at home, I'd be a lot more worried, considering that my wife would be alone. So, this offers me a great advantage."

Muneeb also acknowledged that discord between in-laws is a common problem in households. However, he also added that such matters can be resolved if due space is accorded to individuals residing in the same house. "You can live together, but you can switch up the system. Separate the kitchens, for example," he said.

He revealed that his household is divided across different floors of the house, with all portions tending their own. "Thankfully, no issue ever develops since everyone's handling their own system," he said. Muneeb clasped his hands together, demonstrating what living together is like, adding that it's difficult to break apart after cementing bonds so close.