“The star in Rangreza is still that girl at heart who feels the same level of nervousness before every release as she did the first time.”
Born in Karachi and raised in Islamabad, Urwa Hocane has spent much of her life in Pakistan. The talented Pakistani got her big break as a VJ on ARY Muzik, which instantly led the way towards her immense popularity and since then there has been no looking back. There is no doubt that Urwa is highly talented as she has shined in her numerous roles, from modeling, to acting to VJ-ing – it is clear that this individual gives her heart and soul to everything that she has been involved in and continues to do so. Hence, the countless offers for films, TV series, advertisements as well as appearances; it’s safe to say that her professionalism and drive speaks for itself.
As a mere 17-year-old, Urwa was already aware as to what she wanted to do in life, thereby appearing as Zuni in the TV serial Kountry Luv which was aired on PTV in 2011. Since then she has made waves and has appeared in some of the country’s biggest films, including her film debut in Na Maloom Afraad when she was just 22.
It’s no surprise that the nation is highly anticipating Urwa’s latest project Rangreza, which also stars Bilal Ashraf and Gohar Rasheed. Described as “a film based on music”, Rangreza will be Amir Mohiuddin’s directorial debut and what a relevant time it is to work on a film that explores the contrast in Pakistani music – from modern pop to classical qawali. With the popularity of Coke Studio and Pepsi Battle of the Bands, it’s clear that the country has a throbbing love affair with music, and it’s no wonder that this film excites so many!
Rangreza has become one of the most anticipated films of the season. What will the film offer that will justify the hype around it?
URWA HOCANE: I would like to think that Rangreza’s story is a perfect blend of love, deceit and music, which will keep the audience hooked right from the beginning and hopefully till the end.
The project is Amir Mohiuddin’s directorial debut. You are an industry stalwart. What made you decide upon working with him, given that you are an established actor with a range of experienced directors to work with?
UH: Although our film industry has revived, it’s still in a nascent stage. If every actor decides to only work with experienced directors then we won’t be able to progress at all. More than experience, it’s the vibe I get from people that plays an important factor in my decision to choose a project. When I signed on to do Na Maloom Afraad, Fizza and Nabeel too were debutants back then but I felt a strong connection with them instantly. With Amir as well, I felt a lot of positive energy and sensed a passion in him to make Rangreza happen. I couldn’t have not worked with him.
How do you relate to Reshmi, your character in Rangreza? What was your process of making Reshmi believable?
UH: I don’t think I can relate to Reshmi on a personal level because we both come from very different backgrounds. The process of making her believable was the same as is with every character I play, which is to give my absolute best and be honest to my work.
The film is on a much larger scale than your previous ventures. Does that make you nervous about living up to its expectations?
UH: Well my previous ventures were Punjab Nahi Jaungi, Na Maloom Afraad and Na Maloom Afraad 2 and they were pretty large scale too. I am blessed to have worked with the best in the industry. And yes, Rangreza too is as big a film as those and like my previous projects, I am convinced it too will live up to its expectations.
Your film debut marked you as a powerful performer, how do you make sure the performances in each of your following films does not fall short from Na Maloom Afraad?
UH: As I said, by giving my absolute best and remaining honest to my work.
Rangreza breaks the typecast of the characters you have played so far. Was that a conscious choice?
UH: I don’t think I have ever been typecast. Even Naina in Na Maloom Afraad 2 was a major shift from Naina in the prequel. And Durdana, as you know, was nothing like Naina from Na Maloon Afraad or Na Maloom Afraad 2. Similarly, Reshmi is also a completely different character compared to my previous roles. As for it being a conscious effort, I consider myself lucky that the scripts I have gotten so far have all been different yet equally engaging.
What is the difference between the break out girl in Na Maloom Afraad and the star in Rangreza?
UH: The star in Rangreza is still that girl at heart who feels the same level of nervousness before every release as she did the first time. Although now, I’m very thankful to all the love and support from fans, friends and family that has grown many folds.
The television drama industry is an established, economically viable institution and has a greater range for actors to thrive. What makes you choose film now?
UH: I am doing films but that doesn’t mean I am opposed to working on television. I have never consciously decided to only do films and no dramas. To me what matters is a good script, be it film or TV.
Do you plan on doing television again along with films?
UH: Of course! As I said, I am not opposed to the idea of working on TV at all.
As an actor, does the prospect of fame and celebrity drive you at all?
UH: What drives me is my passion and love for this job. Fame or stardom are just perks and that too if you’re good at it. I value those a lot but as an actor my goal is to concentrate on getting better with every performance and to never stop learning.
Do you feel gender specifications hinder the film making process? Does it disrupt your growth as an actor and the industry standards at large?
UH: Well luckily the projects that I have been part of have all been very strong female characters. From Udaari to Punjab Nahi Jaungi and now Rangreza, in all these stories the female characters drive the entire narrative forward so no, I don’t feel my growth as an actor in this industry is being disrupted in any way.
We keep hearing about politics in the film industry. Would you like to comment on this? How do you deal with the situation?
UH:
“I firmly believe in minding my own business and I follow this in my personal as well as my professional life.”
Are there any industry veterans who drive you or inspire you? How so?
UH: Yes, of course. I feel blessed to have worked with the likes of Saba Hamid, Bushra Ansari and Javed Sheikh. They are not just an inspiration to me but they also have millions of fans. It’s always a great privilege to share screen space with them.
What advise would you give to those wanting to get into the television and film industry?
UH: There are no shortcuts in life. Find yourself and find what you are meant to do. Try everything until you’re sure about what you want and then pursue your dream relentlessly without bothering too much about the criticism. Work hard, stay focused and you will achieve even the impossible.
How does it feel to have your sister and your husband in the same industry?
UH: It feels wonderful. There’s so much to learn and share from our experiences. We don’t have to look far for advice. Mawra has always been my support system and the fact that we are both part of the same industry has kept us closer than we would be if perhaps we had different jobs. I am so lucky to have Farhan in my life; he encourages me, pushes me to aim higher, dream bigger and at the same time keeps me grounded.
Which role do you relate to more – Durdana in Punjab Nahi Jaungi or Reshmi in Rangreza?
UH: I don’t think I relate to any of these two characters on a personal level. That’s the beauty of this job. As an actor you are able to get into the skin of a lot of different characters who may or may not share traits similar to you. Durdana and Reshmi both originate from different backgrounds and don’t share much in common with each other also except for the basic human emotions.
Do you see yourself going to Bollywood in the future?
UH: Why just Bollywood?
“An actor or any artist really, can’t and shouldn’t be restricted by geographical boundaries… If that leads to Bollywood or Hollywood or any other industry in the world for that matter, I’d happily do it.”
If you had the opportunity to work with any actor of your choice, who would it be and why?
UH: Lately, I have been told a few times that I resemble Nargis Dutt a lot. She is a Bollywood icon and one of the greatest actors of all time so yeah, if I could travel back in time, I would have liked to work with her. That would have been quite amazing.
Who is your role model in this profession and why?
UH: I worry more about what kind of role model I can be so my energies are mostly directed towards striving to be better at my job, and life in general.
What are some challenges you have faced in your career that have made you stronger and more determined?
UH: Nothing that other actors haven’t been through.
“Success comes with a lot of hard work and consistent effort, which holds true for every profession… but life is a mix of successes and failures and it is the failures that often make you resilient and make you come back stronger.”
What do you think has been your biggest accomplishment?UH: Creating a loyal fan base whose support and love grows with every new project I take up.
What has been your favourite project to date, and why?
UH: I think that would be Udaari because of the strong message it sent out. As actors we are often expected to endorse or be part of projects that aim to address the evils of society and help educate the audience in the process. Udaari was one such drama serial that not only gave voice to a lot of girls but also showed why women empowerment is essential to the progress of society.
Rangreza is a musical love story. Do you enjoy the song and dance routine in films, which TV serials don’t have?
UH: Yes, I generally am very fond of music so it’s a lot of fun to do songs in movies. Rangreza’s music in particular is a high point of the film and I am very pleased with the overwhelming feedback I have received for my song Bagiya.
Given the new world of paparazzi where anyone can take pictures of celebs and post them, do you think it’s an invasion of privacy?
UH: It is sometimes. Certainly. Because like every other human being who is not a celebrity we too have bad days or we may be so tired that we just want to keep to ourselves. In such instances taking selfies or pleasing paparazzi does become a bit of a daunting task because you know celebrities are expected to always remain poised and perfect.
Also, do you have to make sure you are always impeccably dressed when stepping out with the fear of being photographed?
UH: I wouldn’t call it a fear but as a celebrity you do need to get used to unwanted attention that will come whether or not you like it. Having said that, I don’t make a conscious effort to prepare before stepping out. That would just be too difficult to keep up with.
RAPID FIRE
The last text you sent?
UH: “Red or pink?” – to Mawra asking for her opinion on an outfit (or maybe lip colour or something).
Hashtag that describes your life?
UH: #DreamBelieveAchieve.
One social media account that we have to follow?
UH: Mine of course, duh! i.e. @urwatistic.
Last book you read?
UH: Honestly, I have just been reading scripts this past year.
TV show you love right now?
UH: Game of Thrones.
Who would play you in the movie of your life?
UH: It’s too early to talk about it, I think. There’s so much more that I am yet to experience, so many more places to visit, so many more people to meet. So let’s wait a few decades before we talk about making a movie on my life.
Favourite fictional character?
UH: Wonder Woman.
Last movie you saw?
UH: I love watching old movies that come on TV so the last one I watched was Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai.
Best thing you can cook?
UH: Why are only women asked this question and not men? We can do a lot more than cooking, you know!
Fitness regime?
UH: Eat on time, sleep on time and wake up on time.
Your biggest fear?
UH: Having to deal with numbers.
Word or phrase you say the most?
UH: These days it’s “Help me Fawad, meri jutti nahi mil rahi”, because wherever I go fans insist on me repeating it.
Singing or dancing?
UH: Why not both?
Beauty regime?
UH: Drink lots of water and always have a smile on your face. It keeps you fresh and healthy.
What advise would you give to your 16 year-old-self?
UH: I’d say “good job at not listening to anyone who said you won’t be able to do it! Continue to follow your heart and you will turn your dream into a reality.”
INTERVIEW: MAIRA PAGGANWALA
PHOTOGRAPHS: HASAN HABIB HASHMI, ADNAN QAZI
STYLING & COORDINATION: RAO ALI KHAN
HAIR & MAKE-UP: N-PRO
SET BY TAHA MEMON-DAWAT PK
