Imran Abbas has developed a very picky pronunciation of Punjabi. The renowned actor, who was seated across from host Adnan Faisal, discussed his upcoming Punjabi film, Jee Ve Sohneya Jee, in which he plays the lead role with Simi Chahal, an Indian actress.
“You say it like this, not that,” Imran reminisced, smirking. “I had to take so many classes [where I was instructed]. “If you slip up even a bit, it’s a problem,” he stated. The actress continued, “When this film was offered, I took classes for about a month-and-a-half – every day, without fail.” He also disclosed that Chandigarh was the hometown of his teacher.
The actor corrected the host right away when he was questioned about the location of this “Bollywood film”. “It is not a Bollywood movie. I’ve worked on three Bollywood movies thus far.” He struggled to give the industry a precise name, though, and ended up referring to it as “Pollywood.”
“It is true that Punjabi films release in Pakistan and are doing great business,” Imran said. “And the story of this film is around the people who were uprooted but whose hearts continued to beat in unison—the Punjabs of Pakistan and India—that were once united. It’s a very wonderful subject matter, wrapped up in a very beautiful package of soundtrack, romantic narrative, gorgeous canvas, background, scenery, and overall filmmaking. The plot is excellent. It is all paisa vasool. The actor made sure to disclose that the movie will be released on February 16 everywhere, including in Pakistan.
“This is the kind of movie that should have been made,” Imran declared. He asked, “Why should we talk about hatred?” In a humble way, he acknowledged that this was his way of “bringing the two Punjabs together.” Imran discussed the number of Punjabi sacred sites in Pakistan, including Lahore, which holds enormous significance, and how much love exists amongst the populations despite a border dividing them. He also valued the message Pakistan was sending by opening its borders to anyone wishing to visit their sacred sites.
Upon being questioned about specific aspects of the movie, Imran characterized it as a “love story between the two nations,” in which the main pair is forced to conceal their identity, believing that the other side will not be as accepting as they had anticipated. Imran emphasized his earlier remark on communal unity by repeating how these things become secondary when love is deep within one’s heart.
“Atif Aslam has sung in the film,” Imran stated, and the presenter brought up the fact that the singer will be returning to India after a seven-year hiatus. “Yes,” Imran responded. “After a long time, Atif has sung for the Indian industry, and he has sung beautifully.” Imran also disclosed that a number of well-known Pakistani celebrities, including Anam Tanveer and Sajid Hasan, would be making cameo appearances. But considering that the story’s introductions take place in Pakistan for a brief period of screen time, he claimed that these celebrities only make fleeting appearances.
Imran was asked by the host why he stays away from local films. “Ask Pakistani film producers and directors,” Imran replied frankly, shrugging his shoulders and laughing along with him. Perhaps they don’t believe I’m competent enough.” Adnan reiterated that the star has no desire to work in local productions. Imran explained, “It’s not about what I want to do or don’t want to do.” “I want to do a good film, wherever it may be from.”
Imran added more insight by discussing how some decisions had a deadline. “We have made and will continue to make quality films here. However, I thought the subjects of [the movies I selected] were good at the time. You gain knowledge from your encounters. I don’t care where a good movie is created; if it piques my interest, I’ll watch it.” The actor went back to complimenting Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’s subject matter. If the subject matter was worthwhile, the host inquired again with the celebrity about his willingness to work on a movie in Pakistan. “Certainly, why not? It’s my nation. I love Pakistani movies more than anything else,” Imran retorted.
The actor then discussed dramas and made a distinction between them and movies, saying that movies have much more responsibility than regional television programs. “Delivering a super-hit drama is not a big deal,” Imran added. “I’ve completed a lot of them already. I am aware that eventually, they lose their appeal to people. A movie is that one memory that leaves its mark—it leaves its own impression. Consequently, making films with intelligence is crucial. It’s a big obligation.”
In addition to his interview, Imran recently asked his followers on Instagram to fund his next movie, which he said was supporting a “beautiful cause.” The film features an ensemble cast that includes Mintu Kapa, Udaya Vakati, Brian Shaw, Aman Bal, and Swaraj Sandhu in addition to Imran and Simi.
I am a dedicated student currently in my seventh semester, pursuing a degree in International Relations. Alongside my academic pursuits, I am actively engaged in the professional field as a content writer at the Rangeinn website.