The last we saw Saba Qamar was in Hindi Medium (2017), as she sparkled alongside the late Irrfan Khan. The India-Pakistan tension over the past few years might have kept desi fans away from Qamar, but the actor returns to Indian screens with Mrs & Mr Shameem. How does she feel about reconnecting with the Indian audience after five years? “I’ve always been told that art has no boundaries. I’m excited to be back after so long because the feedback and love that I’ve received from my Indian fans has been overwhelming,” she begins.

The Zindagi series, to be aired on ZEE5, struck a chord with her immediately. With Nauman Ijaz playing Mr Shameem, the series challenges the archaic definition of masculinity. “Shameem’s character is not transgender or gay; he is effeminate. He has the right to love, and probably knows the definition of love much better. The script and the concept caught my attention right away. An actor is known for taking on projects that are different from one another. The beauty of acting is that you’re ready to take up newer challenges every day.”  

Qamar is proud that Mrs & Mr Shameem discusses a woman’s perception of what a man should be like. She believes stories like these are paramount to bring about a shift in the popular gaze. “Such shows can play an important part in changing the perceptions of our society, only if the society is ready to benefit from them. I hope we are ready to learn something new right now. The world is changing,” she says, optimistically. 

Before we part, we end the chat with the one question on our minds: As an actor who had a brush with Bollywood, does she miss working here? “Art should be free and should not have any boundaries. If things are get better, I would love to work again for my fans across the border.”

Saba Qamar had a brief tryst with Bollywood when she shone alongside Irrfan Khan in Hindi Medium (2017). Five years on, the Pakistani star is ready for a date with the Indian audience again with Mrs & Mr Shameem, a Zindagi original that will premiere on ZEE5.

Helmed by Pakistani director Kashif Nisar, the 20-episode series tells the love story of Umaina and Shameem. It was Umaina’s independent streak that drew Qamar to the role. “Umaina is fearless, strong and not afraid to express herself. She is a true wild child,” says the actor.

Writer Sajjad Gul is known to highlight social issues through his stories, and Mrs & Mr Shameem is no exception. Qamar notes that the romantic drama bats for gender equality. “It’s time men and women are given the freedom to choose their paths, and not be restricted to play by the rules. The show demonstrates this perfectly,” she says.

Nauman Ijaz, who plays the male lead, says that Gul has crafted a hero unlike the ones seen in films. “He redefines how an ideal man should be. Throughout the show, you’ll see him practise respect, love and concern for his family and friends. But unfortunately, he is made fun of for being ‘effeminate’.”