Ghazala Javed, a senior actress in the Pakistani entertainment industry, recently appeared on Dunya News’ popular comedy program Mazaq Raat. During the show, she reflected on her career, experiences in the showbiz industry, and the valuable advice she once received from the legendary artist Moin Akhtar. Her insights shed light not only on her personal journey but also on the evolution of Pakistani showbiz over the years.
Ghazala Javed and Moin Akhtar’s Advice
In her conversation, Ghazala Javed revealed that during her career, she received several invitations from political parties. Many people visited her home, urging her to join their ranks. However, the late Moin Akhtar, one of Pakistan’s most respected artists, advised her against entering politics. He told her that an artist belongs to everyone and should not be tied to a single group or ideology.
According to Ghazala Javed, Moin Akhtar believed that an artist’s heart is vast enough to love everyone, and in return, people of all walks of life love the artist. She acknowledged that his guidance helped her avoid limiting herself by aligning with politics, which might have overshadowed her identity as an actress.
Ghazala Javed on the Golden Era of Dramas
Discussing the beginning of her career, Ghazala Javed described the high quality of dramas in earlier years. She recalled how Pakistan Television (PTV) used to rehearse for months before finalizing a production. However, she admitted that the intense effort required at that time did not appeal to her. After acting in a few serials, she chose not to continue in dramas.
Her remarks highlight the significant contrast between the golden era of Pakistani dramas and the present. While dramas in the past emphasized storytelling and artistic depth, today’s productions often prioritize speed and quantity. Ghazala Javed’s observations resonate with audiences who still cherish the quality and legacy of classic PTV dramas.
The Changing Face of Showbiz According to Ghazala Javed
During her interview, Ghazala Javed shed light on how the entertainment industry has transformed. She pointed out that nowadays, many individuals enter the industry by investing money into their own projects. Families sometimes finance dramas or serials specifically to launch their children into showbiz. This, she suggested, has altered the dynamics of the profession, shifting the focus from talent and hard work to financial influence and networking.
She also emphasized how societal attitudes have changed. In the past, she said, families often opposed women entering showbiz. Pursuing an acting career could cause controversy within households. However, today, the same families not only accept but actively encourage opportunities in the entertainment industry. For many, having a connection in showbiz is now seen as an advantage.
Ghazala Javed on New Generation of Actresses
Another important point made by Ghazala Javed was about the new generation of actresses. According to her, today’s actresses are more educated, confident, and empowered compared to the older generation. They do not face the same restrictions or cultural barriers that many of their predecessors encountered. This shift reflects the broader social changes in Pakistan, where increasing educational opportunities and evolving cultural norms have made it easier for women to pursue careers in entertainment.
Ghazala Javed’s perspective highlights a balance between challenges and progress. While financial backing and shortcuts have influenced today’s showbiz, the growing presence of educated and determined women continues to raise the standards of professionalism in the industry.
Ghazala Javed’s Career Lessons
From her reflections, it is clear that Ghazala Javed values authenticity and independence. By following Moin Akhtar’s advice, she avoided the potential pitfalls of political involvement, ensuring that her identity remained tied to her art. Her decision not to pursue lengthy drama commitments also shows her commitment to personal choices over societal expectations.
Her experiences underline the importance of resilience and adaptability in showbiz. The entertainment industry, as she noted, has always been subject to change—whether in the form of evolving audience expectations, societal pressures, or shifting production models. Artists like Ghazala Javed provide a window into how these changes impact both careers and cultural narratives.
The story of Ghazala Javed is not just about an actress who worked in a few serials and then stepped away. It is about the wisdom of staying true to one’s values, the courage to resist pressures from politics, and the ability to observe and comment on the changing landscape of showbiz.
Her reflections highlight the stark difference between the golden era of Pakistani dramas and today’s commercialized industry. They also showcase how far society has come in terms of acceptance of women in entertainment. Ghazala Javed’s journey and words serve as both a reminder of the past and a guide for the future, making her insights valuable for anyone interested in the history and transformation of Pakistani showbiz.
