When it comes to content, there is no doubt that Pakistan is a step ahead of its Indian counterpart with regards to its film and drama industry.
The tutty frutty sensation, Ayesha Omer takes the same stance while talking to Gulf Times after the Hollywood premiere in Los Angeles of her debut film, Karachi Se Lahore.
“Our production budgets are nothing compared to Bollywood. People are investing their own money and trying to make movies. We are seeking help from a lot of brands, but if there is anything we can compete at, it is content,” contends Ayesha.
Khoobsurat is convinced that the Pakistani industry is finer and stronger in terms of content and script. According to her, it is the deep characters and script one can always relate to.
“Our content is very strong. I feel we know how to play with the script, and have some amazing script writers. That is why our drama is getting rave reviews across the border, in India. Our characters are very deep as well and we keep them real — something people can relate to.”
Despite the fact that Pakistan is winning Indian audiences through its content, there is no real initiative for joint ventures.
“Pakistani movies are being banned in India. They want their own industry to prosper, of course, but we are the same people with the same culture and interests. I think people are scared right now because of the political situation. Otherwise, people in both the countries love each other,” Ayesha argues.
Ayesha is also saddened over how Pakistani productions are being stonewalled.
Hum TV production, Bin Roye was released globally recently, but was banned in India. On the other hand, Pakistan screened Salman Khan-starrer Bajrangi Bhaaijan on 74 cinema screens in Pakistan.
Ayesha Omer is a huge fan of Bollywood. She is obsessed with Aamir Khan’s Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak.
“Khan has been one of my favourite actors since I was a kid. He is versatile and has done some fantastic work. I would love to work with him one day. I am a big fan of Shah Rukh as well. I follow Naseeruddin Shah, Nana Patekar and Deepika Padukone, keenly too. I am also a big fan of Kareena Kapoor. Among older stars, Madhuri Dixit-Nene and Kajol are icons.” said Ayesha.
Nevertheless, Ayesha feels that it is not the right time to move into Bollywood yet.
“Frankly, I would be very honoured and humbled, but I want to work in Pakistan because my country needs us right now. The Indian industry is very lucrative and it is easy to go there — rather everyone who is getting even a whiff is going there. It is great because it is a huge industry with a global reach, but I want to stay back for a few years and work here. I might however, do a really good project if it comes my way — only if I do not have to compromise values and feel that there is substance in it.”
