LAHORE: Syra Yousuf, a celebrated television and film actress, thinks that commercialism has crept into TV plays to a certain extent but says that there are plays, which are doing really well on the small screen.

“Long lingering episodes sometimes become irritating; nevertheless, that also depends on the demand of the script,” she says during a recent talk with Dawn while she was in Lahore.

Syra came to Lahore for promotion of her upcoming movie Babylicious that is going to be released on Eidul Azha.

She candidly talked about her film, her upcoming projects and a book she wants to write and the need for an academy of performing arts in the country.

Syra thinks long lingering episodes can become irritating

Syra Yousuf’s fan following is huge though she avoids interviews generally but she also likes to share her thoughts on subjects related to performing arts. Her choice of projects is also limited. She does not go for every project but only the ones having scripts carrying a great sensibility.

About her upcoming movie Babylicious, she says “It’s a rom-com, chick flick, feel-good kind of a love story but it is also thought provoking. I really enjoyed working on this project”.

The movie has been written and directed by Umar Essa Khan. It was originally a short film but later it turned into a feature film. Talking about it, Syra says that the film came to her a few years back but the script needed more detailing and it had to be changed a lot until it made any sense. She hopes that the cinegoers would enjoy this film.

“I am working on a television series right now; however, I don’t take on many projects. I am somewhat particular in my projects for the sake of quality and substance.”

When asked about the projects in India, she says that though she doesn’t have any offers at the moment; however, I believe that art doesn’t have any boundaries as it is like submission of the soul to creativity and aesthetics.

Syra’s favourite TV serials are Dhoop Kinare, Ankahi and Tanhayian.

Stressing the importance of training for actors, she says there should be a national academy of performing arts with a unified approach with a fine course line and faculty.

“We, in our country, have no dearth of talent and the TV industry is expanding. There are many private channels out there and such an academy can be a lifeline for all upcoming young girls and boys who want to excel in the fields related to performing arts.”

To the question of acting in the television serial Sinf-e-Aahan, Syra Yousuf termed it fabulous while living for three months at the Pakistan Military Academy and doing drills every day.

“I am sure many people would consider sending their daughters to the Pakistan Army after watching the serial.”

The serial had the story of five girls from different backgrounds and how they evolved into brave strong women.

Syra shared her plans to write a book, detailing her journey as an actor, saying:“I am considering writing a book on my experiences and my journey of acting. Perhaps such a book will be beneficial to all those who want to be a part of the showbiz industry”.

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2023