Fawad Khan, the prince of 'Khoobsurat', is a classic example of old school charm. Soft spoken, endearing and unbelievably polite, one spots the natural gentleman in him and understands why he gets to play a Rajasthani prince. And the best part? His gradual but steady blushing when the topic shifts to his household heart throb status with 'Zindagi Gulzar Hain'. Here's a freewheeling chat exclusive to Pinkvilla.com.
How did Khoobsurat happen?
It was a pretty straightforward process. The casting director had seen my work. She sent it to AKFC (Anil Kapoor Film Company), they called me down to Mumbai and we did a couple of readings. I was signed on for the film, and then we finalized the dates for the shoot.
That's a pretty simple debut in a large Bollywood film. And you were already a well recognized actor right when you were introduced to the media because of your TV series Zindagi Gulzar Hain'. Did the acceptance feel good, were you expecting it?
It was yes. Umm...again, I think it's difficult for those who come in with lots of expectations. Even back home, when I entered the film and TV industry, I had no expectations. I think that's why the process for me, has always been relatively easier. When you don't have any expectations, you are able to surpass whatever you get. So when I came to Bollywood everything was a bonus, all of it has been a bonus. My TV show has been an added advantage, and I am very grateful to the audience here in India, people have been welcoming.
Have you had a chance to interact with people here beyond the film industry so far? Or anyone outside the media? What reactions have you seen firsthand?
I do often and on get to meet people, but I think that's mostly at the hotel lobby (laughs). I have been promoting the film so far. I think the best compliment ever, and I am very flattered and honoured, when someone once said, that we've turned to TV because of your show. We've started watching a serial. I think if I have been able to attract people to a medium that is alien to them, or not their habit, then I see that as a very bit accomplishment personally.
On khubsurat', how did you interpret a modern day Indian prince? And what made you choose this film for a Bollywood debut?
There are two reasons that motivated me to work in a Bollywood film. One, is to come out of that comfort zone of mine, where you reign as king (In Pakistan). I don't want to say that I rule the industry, but you are king of the hill. One was the challenge of coming out that zone, and starting at square one.
Second, which is very important, are the producers of the film, AKFC. As a team, Rhea and Sonam, particularly Rhea as producer, has a very developed sense of aesthetics. Aesthetics is not every one's cup of tea. Not everyone understands it, and not everyone execute that easily. For some, it may seem superficial, but for me, it holds a great deal of importance in any film or in any project. No matter what class or role you are representing, aesthetics always count, that's what makes a film beautiful. And thirdly, the fact that I am teaming up with an established star, an established production banner, under the Disney umbrella. This is a first of its kind film by Disney from this part of the world. So everything was unique.
I am curious, the way we look at actors in India is a very larger than life persona. Actors, whether emerging or established, are followed, discussed and also idolized. Their lives are starry too. Is it the same in Pakistan?
Not for me. I consider myself to be a very normal person. I am middle class, I still like to live that lifestyle. Of course, everyone likes to improve their lifestyle, bit by bit, the higher you climb in life, in terms of luxury. But that doesn't change the fact that I am very rooted in the middle class, and I believe this class of society, can bring about real change. So I stay true to that, and it makes me nervous to build a larger than life side. Here and back home, some actors have an entourage. I don't have that, I think an entourage draws more attention than necessary. So I try to avoid that.
I live in Lahore, and like to lead a normal life as much as possible.
What do you think of your co star Sonam Kapoor?
She is a great human being, very good host. She is very full of life. She has got a very relaxed nature, very few hang ups, a lot less than one would expect. Whatever I have seen and experienced has been pleasant.
In Khoobsurat', you've had a chance to act with seasoned performers like Ratna Pathak Shah and Kirron Kher. And you've been in Mumbai for some time now. Have you had a chance to interact with your contemporary actors or other people from Bollywood?
I haven't had a chance to interact with many so far, have met a few other senior actor. I have had a chance to meet Karan Johar in a very informal set up, he is a great person and is very witty. He is also a great producer and a filmmaker with a very expansive vision. I met Anupam Kher at Sonam's place at a dinner, and I have watched since I was this high (a kid's height). I have grown up watching his films, he is a brilliant performer who has done a variety of roles and has a great personality. I've been a fan of his work since I was a kid, and have also admired Mr Anil Kapoor's work. He was the second person I met after Rhea when I first came to Mumbai. One of the earliest films that I used to keep watching was Mr India. Farah Khan is someone I met during a TV show briefly.
I am familiar with everyone's work amongst the contemporary stars. I ran into Arjun Kapoor and Sanjay Kapoor briefly, and they were great to interact with. Overall, I haven't had a chance to socialize a lot, but whoever I have met, has been warm and welcoming.
So do you plan to stay on and look for more work in Bollywood?
If Bollywood wants me again, and offers come my way, yes. But then again I don't look for work actively (smiles). By nature, I am a lazy person, and I tend to stumble upon things. Lady luck has always smiled upon me, God has been very kind, so I just sit back and relax and let them find the right work for me.
To conclude, you've already become a bit of a heartthrob with young ladies (and their mothers too, although they won't quite admit it) here in India thanks to your TV show. How do you react to that?
(Blushes), I am very flattered, that's all I can say...(Smiles). I have seen some adulation, and I feel a bit embarrassed. But it's been great honestly. I have a limited body of work, and that it's been liked and accepted enthusiastically, I feel flattered. I don't consider myself anything special though, so the admiration of young girls is flattering (continues to blush).
http://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainmenttags/sonam-kapoor/exclusive-fawad-khan-talks-about-khoobsurat-and-his-brush-bollywood
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