Pakistani actors featuring in Indian films has become a norm now, but Mikaal Zulfiqar worked in a collaborative Pakistan-India film when this concept was relatively unknown. While Ali Zafar’s consistency in Bollywood is unquestionable, he still hasn’t acquired the recognition that Indian actors get there. “There is a very nationalistic approach to Bollywood and it is hard for Pakistanis to make that kind of a mark there,” he adds.
Where acting and performing arts have gained worldwide recognition, Pakistani actors are gradually gaining the stardom and respect that they deserve.
When stylist Nabila discovered Zulfiqar at the age of 18 and convinced him to model, he had no idea what was in store for him.
Being the only child living with his father in Lahore while his siblings were away, Zulfiqar worked his charm in a few feature films with India and innumerable shows in Pakistan. His association with Ufone in the last five years has contributed immensely to his popularity. “It is a very fickle industry and so you need to be very hands on with the way you work,” he continues. “Since I started working at such a young age, I missed out on college life, but my career has been very rewarding so I have never felt like I missed out on anything.”
