Fashion and beyond: Meesha Shafi knows no bounds

The artist gives an insight into The Reluctant Fundamentalist and her future plans.

KARACHI:

Meesha Shafi’s versatility in the field of performing arts knows no bounds. The artist has proved to be a woman of substance; she showed off her powerful vocals as a member of popular band Overload, she sang “Alif Allah” with legendary singer Arif Lohar on “Coke Studio”, walked the ramp for many iconic designers and now Shafi is all geared to show her element as an actor in Mira Nair’s next venture The Reluctant Fundamentalist.

How did the opportunity of working in Nair’s project come?

I truly believe that what is meant for you comes your way on its own. For me, the opportunity to meet the great director Mira Nair was the main reason I went for a screen test. At the time, I didn’t even know what movie or part I was being considered for. I’m extremely humbled for having been to be chosen for a part in this stellar project.

What role are you playing in The Reluctant Fundamentalist?

The role I’m playing is of a spirited, lively girl who transforms into a responsible and somber being after knowing the problems that her family (more directly her brother Changez) is facing in the wake of current affairs. The film, which is based on Pakistani writer Mohsin Hamid’s book of the same name, portrays an intriguing facet of life. This film is a big achievement for him and our nation. The book lends an interesting perspective to the times we live in and the realities we are facing. It talks so honestly of the changes in attitude and equal opportunities that young Pakistanis are facing in ‘The land of dreams: America’, as well as at home.

Tell us about your journey from modelling to singing and acting?

I take my career a day at a time. I’ve always followed my belief of doing quality work and never pressurising myself for quantity of work or publicity. These transitions, from one side of showbiz to another and back, are not conscious. I see my projects as individual chapters or experiences and try to pick offers that are challenging and new as well as interesting. I follow the natural direction that my career path is paving for me and it has been a rewarding way of progressing so far. I plan to stick to it.

Who are the other cast members in the movie? Who are you looking forward to working with?

It’s impossible to pick one name to answer that question. All the names are so legendary, even the newer but super talented Riz Ahmed is an up and coming force to reckon with in the world of acting. To be working with greats like Om Puri, Shabana Azmi, Kiefer Sutherland and Kate Hudson is a surreal thought. It’s a dream come true.

What are your expectations from this international project?

I expect nothing but great things for this film. There are many talented, highly trained and very reputable individuals on board and the results will be dynamic to say the least. This story has already been critically acclaimed globally. And now with Mira Nair’s cinematic vision and the extremely versatile, international cast, the production is all set to cause a stir.

What are your future plans? Are there any other projects that your fans can look forward to?

There are many projects that are currently in the pipeline. I have never been this busy and can’t wait to share it all with my fans.  The multitasking leaves me exhausted but in a great way. I’m also geared up to hit the ramp after almost a year at the upcoming fashion weeks. As far as the future is concerned, we must all pray for Pakistan because no matter how many plans we make and how many dreams we dream, our future depends on that of this nation.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 16^th, 2011.