In an exclusive appearance on Sahiba’s talk show, veteran actor and producer Saud Qasmi provided a deep dive into his diverse journey, sharing anecdotes ranging from personal matters to significant contributions to the Pakistani entertainment industry. The conversation delved into Saud’s unique career approach, his pioneering dramas, and the unacknowledged influence he believes his work has had on subsequent productions, despite lacking acknowledgment.
Saud revealed a distinctive aspect of his career, highlighting that he initially refrained from acting in dramas. Notably, he emphasized being the sole producer who abstained from taking center stage in his own creations. One of his groundbreaking ventures, “Yeh Zindagi Hai,” not only marked a turning point in his career but also set new trends in the industry that continue to shape contemporary television dramas.
During the interview, Saud shared, “When I was working and started dramas, I gave my own characters to others. I could have done them myself. But I thought, no, (the other actor) should be pushed ahead. Give him a chance. I’ve given work to everyone. I haven’t appeared as a hero in my production. No one’s ever done this.” Saud acknowledged that this decision might have been a mistake, as those he provided opportunities to did not acknowledge him, raising questions about gratitude within the industry. Discussing the trendsetting impact of “Yeh Zindagi Hai,” Saud remarked, “Shows like Yeh Zindagi Hai air and will continue airing. That trend will never end. It will work for fifty years—one rich household and one poor household. Pick up any show, it has the same story.” The veteran actor also revealed his involvement in the inception of “Khuda Aur Mohabbat,” asserting that they were the trailblazers behind the iconic OST that still resonates today. However, Saud lamented the lack of credit given to his team for this musical masterpiece, pointing out the industry’s recurring issue of unattributed contributions.
“I made Khuda Aur Mohabbat as well,” Saud asserted. “The first season, I made it. The song was written by Jameeli. The same is repeated to date. The credits don’t even say thanks, but it’s fine. I know I’ve made it. Thanks to YouTube, everything is on record – who made it, when was it made, when did it air, which show was it, who starred in what show the first time.”
Saud’s candid revelations extended to the opportunities he provided to numerous individuals, fostering the rise of many stars. However, he expressed disappointment at the lack of acknowledgement or gratitude from several beneficiaries, suggesting that this oversight contributes to the industry’s perceived decline. His sentiments reflect broader concerns about the lack of acknowledgment within the Pakistani entertainment sphere. Saud’s reflections not only shed light on the intricacies of the industry but also prompt a broader conversation about recognizing and crediting contributions that shape the creative landscape. When asked about people taking advantage of him, Saud acknowledged, “Yes, people take advantage of each other in this world. As they should. But remember it. They take advantage and don’t remember. In our neighboring country, in Hollywood, success is this: remembering the bad times. And they tell their friends that when I was facing turbulent times, this person was with me.”
Saud’s revelations on Sahiba’s show provide insights into the untold stories of a seasoned professional, offering a perspective on the complexities, challenges, and unspoken dynamics within the Pakistani entertainment industry. His experiences serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of those who play pivotal roles in the industry’s evolution.
