Dawn Images

In the world of showbiz, where celebrities are scrutinised as much as they are celebrated, Mehwish Hayat has constantly hit back at unsolicited criticism and needless trolling with bigger roles and better performances. But when push comes to shove, she has also put her grace and trademark wit to use.

Addressing questions about her plans for marriage, she displayed the same grace she does onscreen and candidly shared her thoughts on love, life, why the “M-word” isn’t on the cards, and whether anyone’s made a move on her yet.

With an arched brow and a mischievous twinkle in her eye, Hayat, in an interview with Suhail Warraich for Geo News, said, “I’ll be very honest, people are scared of me!” The irony of a talented actor striking fear into the hearts of admirers only adds to Hayat’s charm but she made it clear that behind the intimidating façade, lies a woman who is as down-to-earth as they come.

Dispelling the myth that looks reign supreme in matters of the heart, Hayat made it clear that for her, personality takes centre stage. “Good looks don’t matter,” she affirmed, “personality matters.”

Her criteria for a potential partner — he should be kind and cultured with a generous sprinkle of humour to keep life interesting. “I’m a very serious person, so I want someone who can constantly make me laugh to strike that balance,” she said.

In a society where fair skin takes precedence, Hayat proclaimed, “Skin colour and looks do not matter. Your heart and soul should be beautiful. My other half should be a little romantic too!” she quipped, proving that even the most pragmatic among us harbour a soft spot for love’s sweet gestures.

Speaking of romance, Hayat couldn’t resist a playful nod to her long-standing crush, Hollywood heartthrob Leonardo DiCaprio. “Leonardo DiCaprio — if you are watching and ready to make an offer, I’m listening!” she teased, much to the delight of fans worldwide.

The Ms Marvel actor also proved that beneath the playful banter lies a woman who approaches marriage with the seriousness it deserves. “For me, marriage is a very big responsibility.”

The self-proclaimed perfectionist said that striking the right balance between personal and professional aspirations is paramount. “If I have something in mind for my career and ambitions, I would have to think about too many people,” she reflected.

Hayat assured that it’s not a matter of ruling out marriage, but rather a recognition that timing is everything. As she eloquently put it, “If I find someone who adds value to my life and supports my career and dreams, then I can think about it. Someone who can understand the importance of my work. Although that’s hard to find in Pakistan. But if I find someone like that I might take the plunge. The track I am on right now, though, I know either my work will suffer or my marriage.”

Upon being pressed for further details about her “Mr Right,” she said, “I also think he should be financially stable. He should earn more than I do. Although I am very independent and I get whatever I want for myself. Thank God, I am capable enough. So, more than financially, I think I need someone who can support me mentally and emotionally.”

In a landscape where societal expectations often dictate the course of one’s life, Hayat is charting her own path. While marriage may not be on the cards for her, one thing is certain — when the time is right, Hayat will approach it with the same grace and pragmatism with which she approached her career.