MUSLIMS SHOULD BE DEPICTED NORMALLY: IQBAL
The actor talks about how Muslim characters are portrayed on the small screen; adds that people focus on hatred instead of compassion
Iqbal Khan (above) is back on the small screen, and is thrilled about his current role as a Nawab. The actor, who has worked in hit TV shows such as Kaisa Ye Pyar Hai, Kavyanjali and Pyaar Ko Ho Jaane Do (PKHJD), wants Muslim characters to be portrayed “normally” on TV.
What do you think of the portrayals of Muslims in TV shows?
I have played a Muslim in PKHJD too. And in this show, my character is used to portray cultural differences and bring in contrast. As for other shows — which I wouldn’t want to name — when they showed a terrorist, the actor was seen wearing a namaz [prayer] cap and had the namaz mark on his forehead. It is sad that these are trademarks of terrorists. There’s no need to play the Azaan [a call for prayer] every time a Muslim character walks into a scene. I would like Muslim characters to be depicted as normal people. It is happening in some shows, but not all of them.
What do you feel when you look back on your journey as an actor?
I have grown as an actor. I can’t comment on how much [I’ve grown], as that’s for the audience to decide. But I am objective about my work. I started working when acting was loud (overdramatic) on TV. Perhaps that is a blessing, as I don’t like that, so I act as normally as I can. Not being loud and not overacting has worked for me.
What do you think is the definition of a TV star?
I don’t think there are any stars on TV. The story has to be right and the writer is the star. If any actor thinks a show is getting high ratings because of him, that’s an illusion. Yes, the audience gets attached to the characters and the actors playing those roles. If the actor leaves the show, it might affect the show a little bit, but if the story is out of this world, then the show will bounce back.
Do you think you are a star?
Well, there are popular actors on TV, and I have been here for years, so I am a fossil now. I better be popular (laughs). I don’t go out for events to check out my popularity. I am no longer on Facebook or Twitter; I’m only on Instagram now. There is too much hatred [on social media], as people go on about India and Pakistan, and Hindus and Muslims. I want to stay in my bubble, where everyone is fine and loves each other. There is a lot of compassion in the world, but people focus on hatred.