His production Teefa In Trouble marking an association with Yash Raj Films, Ali Zafar on cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan
Usman Ghafoor (MID-DAY; July 23, 2018)

Stating that he's "always in pursuit of wisdom," Ali Zafar effortlessly quotes the likes of Rumi and Bulleh Shah, whose words have been guiding lights for many. Unshaken after a controversy of sexual harassment involving him shook the Pakistan entertainment industry, Zafar, in an exclusive chat with mid-day, says "Truth shall prevail eventually."

His first home production, Teefa In Trouble, which released last Friday, marks "a historic partnership" with Yash Raj Films. He discusses what collaborations across the border signify.

How did the collaboration with Yash Raj Films come about?
When I was working with them, I shared a [rapport] with Aditya Chopra. We'd often discuss cinema. He's an inspiring person. While working on Teefa In Trouble, I told him I wanted his company to release the film. He was forthcoming. Eventually, I showed the final cut to their international team in London. They said it was going to be a game-changer for Pakistani cinema.

The film has been released in 25 countries across the globe - a first for a Pakistani feature. We are exploring new territories like Russia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Fiji, Poland and Indonesia. We are going to dub or add sub titles so that it can be watched by non-Urdu and non-Hindi speaking audiences too.

You invited your Kill Dil director Shaad Ali to attend Teefa In Trouble's music launch in Lahore. Are you in touch with your former colleagues in Bollywood?
Yes, I am. In the film, there's also a surprise appearance, if I may call it so, by Ranveer Singh.

Can you talk about the music?
The music has been created to suit the film's varied emotional palette. This was challenging, because I was making music after a long time. We tried to make it sound appealing for the big screen. Also, the songs are catchy. I'm glad that Chan Ve has crossed 8 million views on YouTube.

How was it to work on Dear Zindagi?
I am not sure how many people know this, but my scenes had been shot and we were ready to start promotions when relations between India and Pakistan soured. So, my portions were re-shot with another actor. But, Shah Rukh [Khan] and Gauri [Khan] stood up for me. I had a great time working with them.

Will you take your association with YRF forward, co-producing films with Indian companies?
I have always maintained that co-productions should happen; they'll do wonders for both countries. I stand with those who favour peace and collaborations.

Your brother was supposed to debut in a YRF production.
Yes, it was about to go on floors. [But] there is only so much that you can do; you can't alter God's plans.

Talking about the controversy you found yourself in with singer Meesha Shafi, do you believe people are harsher to men in sexual harassment allegations?
Unfortunately, instead of doing research, we followed trends and hashtags. We think that if we join in [the voices on social media], we'll become cool. We shouldn't see things in binaries.

What are your views on social-media propelled feminist movements like #MeToo?
Everything boils down to intention. The movement has a certain sanctity that must be maintained. People are intelligent enough to understand things. Truth does prevail. I have taken the course of law; things shall become clear in time.