Sehar Khan believes dramas should address social issues to change people’s mindsets

After starring in Tan Mann Neel o Neel, Sehar Khan believes that Pakistani television shows should discuss social issues in an effort to change people’s thought processes.

The final episode of Tan Mann Neel o Neel was lauded for its realistic and unflinching depiction of mob violence, a horrific reality for many in Pakistan.

The show, written by Mustafa Afridi, directed by Saife Hassan and produced by Sultana Siddiqui, wrapped up in a powerful finale, discussing the pressing issue of false blasphemy accusations and the subsequent mob violence that claims lives.

During an Iftar reception hosted by HUM TV, the show’s network, Khan said that she felt proud to have been a part of the show because she previously thought her line of work was not very serious.

The Ishq Di Chashni actor also agreed when the panel’s moderator asked if she had gained 10 years of work experience by starring in Tan Mann Neel o Neel.

“I have always wanted to work with Saife [Hassan], and I’m so glad that I got to do this project with him,” Khan said, appreciating Siddiqui and Afridi’s work on the show.

She told the audience that she was a very straightforward person and would now tell producers to learn something and make dramas about social issues. “Commercial ratings are not everything,” Khan said to applause from the crowd.

“It’s upsetting that projects are made and they [the showmakers] want to cast actors who bring ratings. That mindset needs to change.”

She said that after her role in Tan Mann Neel o Neel people would hug her and cry. “People always told me that they liked a project or that I made them laugh, but when they embraced me, cried and told me their stories, I had goosebumps.

“So many homes have been destroyed,” Khan added.

Khan’s acting credits include the romantic comedies Fairy Tale and Ishq Di Chashni, sombre romance shows such as Fasiq and Rang Mahal, and Jafaa which delved into the issue of domestic abuse. She also starred in Naqab Zan, Dikhawa, Zakham and Mushk, among other shows.