interview
This week, You! is in conversation with model-turned-actor Hina Ashfaq. Read on…
Gorgeous and well-known model Hina Ashfaq’s journey into the entertainment world was not planned – it happened by coincidence in 2013, when she became the muse for her cousin’s nascent photography career. Those initial ‘insane’ trial shoots unexpectedly yielded a stunning professional portfolio, which she later uploaded to the online platform Flickr. The industry instantly took notice, validating her natural appeal with an influx of attention and ‘likes’ that essentially launched her into the limelight. Her hard work and determination earned her a spot among the top seven contestants of Miss Veet Pakistan 2014, giving her career a new rise. What followed was a prolific modelling phase, during which her face graced campaigns for various renowned brands.
Though Hina started her career as a model, she soon ventured into acting. In 2016, she made her acting debut in the drama serial ‘Munkir’ followed by a guest appearance in the movie ‘Thora Jee Le’. Her other notable drama serials include ‘Alif’, ‘Rangdari’, ‘Askhbar’, ‘Masters’ and ‘Paposh Nagar Ki Neelam’. These days she is engaged in two drama projects - one, ‘Qafas’, is already on air, and the other is ‘Fitoor-e-Ishq’ - along with two major TVC campaigns and several digital brand collaborations set to release soon. In a candid interview with You! Hina shares her likes and dislikes and also her views on acting and matters related to it. Read on…
Has acting been an easy job for you?
When I first started, I thought that acting was a walk in the park. However, I quickly realised that acting is a demanding, full-time commitment that requires an enormous amount of patience and sheer hard work. It’s a field where you are always on your toes. Acting is no small feat.
What are your career priorities now?
My current priority is laser-focused: to become a good performer. Initially, acting was more of a casual pursuit - a simple hobby I loved. I have recently dipped my toes into several challenging drama projects. The inspiration was simply a deep-seated desire to explore more complex, character-driven narratives and truly prove my mettle as an actor.
With the proliferation of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, how do you see them transforming the landscape of modern storytelling?
OTT platforms have been genuine game changers. I feel there is an immediate shift where audiences and creators alike are more vocal and candid. The overall evolution has been profound and thanks to the democratising power of social media, the doors of opportunity are now wide open for talent from all walks of life.
On what basis do you decide which projects to undertake?
My compass for project selection always points toward the script. I specifically seek out robust and nuanced characters - roles that aren’t just decorative but genuinely offer me a substantial canvas for performance and dramatic expression. The character’s journey has to resonate with me deeply.
Do you consider social media to be an effective instrument for the discovery of new talent?
Unequivocally, yes. It has made the traditional barriers to entry a thing of the past. It’s now significantly easier for aspiring artists to bypass conventional channels, get noticed and even achieve a degree of fame - often seemingly overnight - simply by leveraging their online presence.
Are you involved with your fans on social media?
I am fundamentally a very private person; I truly guard my privacy. Therefore, I make a conscious effort to keep my social media platforms strictly professional, sharing primarily work-related content. However, within those boundaries, I strive to connect with my followers by being genuine and authentic in my posts, which I believe is key to building a lasting connection.
If you could embody any role, what would be your dream role?
My dream would be to portray myself, Hina, in my own biographical film one day (God willing). There’s no character more challenging or deeply personal than your own life story.
If you were to produce a series, who would you enlist as the director, co-actor and writer, and what would be the subject matter?
I’d assemble a powerhouse team: I would choose Bilal Lashari as the visionary director, Khushal Khan as the talented co-actor, and Umera Ahmed as the masterful writer. The series would delve into the captivating and intense realm of suspense/thriller - a genre I find incredibly compelling.
What issues do you believe are crucial to explore in contemporary cinema?
I strongly believe contemporary cinema must hold a mirror up to the realities of our society. It’s essential to explore crucial, often difficult topics such as mental health awareness, the imperative of gender equality, social justice issue, and the complex struggles faced by the younger generation. These narratives are vital because they allow audiences to connect on a much deeper, human level and serve as catalysts for much-needed dialogue. Additionally, it is important to illuminate themes of hope, resilience and self-discovery, which feed the soul and inspire belief in positive change and personal growth.
Actors and their best performances you look up to?
I have been incredibly inspired by the performances of Mahira Khan in Shehr-e-Zaat, Saba Qamar in Cheekh, Faysal Qureshi in Qaid-e-Tanhai, Fahad Mustafa in Main Abdul Qadir Hoon, and Sajal’s stunning performance in Alif. These all set the gold standard for me.
What are the three things that make you think to accept a project?
It’s a tripartite consideration, or a “three-legged stool,” so to speak. First, I require a compelling and well-crafted script. Second, the project must offer substantial potential for a strong, impactful performance from me. And finally, one has to be practical - a healthy production budget is certainly a factor that ensures the vision can be realised without compromise.
RAPID FIRE WITH HINA
Favourite social media influencer?
Romaisa Khan.
What are you currently binge-watching?
‘Tamasha’.
Morning person or night owl?
Depends on the routine and work.
Book or a podcast?
Podcast.
Dream collaboration?
Saba Qamar and Fawad Khan.
One word to describe your journey so far?
Roller coaster.
Social issues you’re passionate about?
Gender inequality, mental health issues,
human and animal rights.
Your go-to guilty pleasure show?
‘Friends’.
Describe your ideal weekend in three words.
Food, beach and relax.
Favourite on-set snack?
Fruits.
What’s a trend you hope makes a comeback?
Loyalty and honesty.
If you weren’t in showbiz, what would you be doing?
I’d be a fashion designer.
One superpower you wish you had?
To read people's mind.
What song gets you motivated?
‘Hall of Fame’.
Social media platform you use the most?
Instagram.
Favourite way to unwind after a long day?
To hang out with friends for a while or have a good meal.
Actors you admire?
Saba Qamar and Sajal.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
‘Chal Dil Mere’.
A memorable lesson learned from a failure?
Failure is a part of life. If you want to be successful,
keep falling and keep moving.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
A perfect day for me would include having a healthy breakfast, doing something productive, watching the
sunset at the beach, enjoying my favorite meal,
and getting good-quality sleep
