Renowned Pakistani actor Mikaal Zulfiqar, who began his career in Bollywood with the 2007 film “Godfather”, recently opened up about his journey in Indian cinema and the challenges faced by Pakistani actors working across the border. In a candid interview with a YouTube channel, Mikaal shared insights into his career, the influence of politics on art, and the lessons he learned from his Bollywood experience.
Mikaal Zulfiqar’s Bollywood Beginnings
Mikaal Zulfiqar entered Bollywood early in his modeling career. His debut in “Godfather” came by chance, thanks to fellow actor Ahsan Khan, who was initially cast but turned down the role. Mikaal credited Ahsan Khan for his Bollywood break, emphasizing their strong friendship at the time.
Reflecting on this phase of his career, Mikaal admitted that he was initially drawn to Bollywood for the exposure and opportunities it promised. However, his perspective shifted as he navigated the challenges of working in a politically sensitive environment.
The Struggles of Pakistani Actors in Bollywood
Mikaal highlighted the precarious nature of working in Bollywood for Pakistani artists, citing the frequent political tensions between India and Pakistan. He revealed that his career in India came to a halt after the Mumbai attacks in 2008, which led to a ban on Pakistani actors.
“When Pakistani actors were banned after the Mumbai attacks, I faced difficulties transitioning back to work in Pakistan because I had earlier refused local projects in favor of Bollywood,” he said.
The actor stressed that political unrest often takes precedence over artistic endeavors, putting the careers of Pakistani actors at risk. “Artists are forced to bear the brunt of politics. It’s good to work in India, but it is not sustainable,” Mikaal stated, urging fellow Pakistani actors to prioritize their careers in Pakistan instead.
Challenges of Working in Bollywood
According to Mikaal, another major hurdle for Pakistani actors in Bollywood is the lack of meaningful roles. He observed that Pakistani talent is often given secondary or weaker roles that serve as mere token appearances.
“If a Pakistani actor gains fame in India, the industry starts cutting their wings,” Mikaal remarked, alluding to the challenges of sustaining success in an environment that is not always welcoming to outsiders.
Lessons Learned: A Call for Self-Reliance
Mikaal’s experience in Bollywood taught him a valuable lesson: the importance of investing in one’s local industry. He acknowledged that he initially refused work in Pakistan during his Bollywood stint, but the political fallout made him reconsider his priorities.
“Just as my career was at risk after choosing Bollywood, no Pakistani actor should prefer India because political problems will always persist,” Mikaal cautioned. He emphasized that Pakistani actors must focus on strengthening their own film and television industries, which have shown tremendous potential in recent years.
The Role of Ahsan Khan in Mikaal’s Bollywood Journey
Sharing an anecdote about how he landed his role in “Godfather,” Mikaal credited Ahsan Khan for opening the door to Bollywood. Ahsan was initially cast in the film but declined the project, paving the way for Mikaal to step in.
Mikaal expressed gratitude for Ahsan’s support, recalling their friendship and mutual encouragement during the early days of their careers.
A Career Rooted in Resilience
Despite the ups and downs, Mikaal Zulfiqar has built a successful acting career in Pakistan, becoming a household name through hit dramas and films. His journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to one’s roots.
The Future of Pakistani Talent
Mikaal believes that the future of Pakistani entertainment lies in the hands of local artists and filmmakers. He urged Pakistani actors to focus on their domestic industry, which continues to grow and attract international attention.
“Strengthening our own industry will create more opportunities for everyone and reduce the reliance on foreign platforms,” Mikaal said, expressing hope for a brighter future for Pakistani cinema and television.
Mikaal Zulfiqar’s candid reflections on his Bollywood journey offer valuable lessons for aspiring actors. While Bollywood may seem alluring, the challenges faced by Pakistani actors underscore the importance of building a strong foundation in one’s home industry.
As Mikaal continues to shine in Pakistan’s entertainment world, his story serves as an inspiration for artists to embrace their roots, overcome obstacles, and contribute to the growth of their local industry. His message is clear: success is sustainable only when it’s built on a solid, homegrown foundation.
