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Mehmood Aslam, a veteran actor with a career spanning over four decades, has made significant contributions to Pakistani theatre, dramas, and films.
Known for his serious roles and his beloved character in the long-running sitcom “Bulbulay,” Aslam has witnessed various phases of the country’s history and the evolution of its entertainment industry.
Recently, he shared his candid thoughts and reflections as a guest on the FHM podcast, where he delved into his love for Pakistan and the challenges the country faces.
Loyalty to Homeland
Throughout the podcast, Aslam expressed a deep-seated love for his homeland. Despite numerous opportunities to leave Pakistan, he chose to remain, driven by his commitment to his country.
He passionately stated that Pakistan is in his heart and soul, and his decision to stay reflects his unwavering loyalty.
Harsh Realities
However, Aslam did not shy away from highlighting the harsh realities that Pakistanis face. He lamented that despite his love for the country, there is little for Pakistanis to be proud of at present.
He pointed out Pakistan’s dismal global standing, such as having the fourth worst passport ranking in the world.
He recounted the humiliation that Pakistanis often endure at international airports, where they are frequently pushed around and treated poorly.
Aslam’s criticisms extend to the current state of affairs in Pakistan. He expressed profound disappointment in the country’s rulers, attributing the nation’s woes to their poor governance.
He emphasized that many aspects of the country are dysfunctional, and his heart bleeds when he considers the damage done to the homeland.
According to him, Pakistan is currently devoid of elements that inspire national pride.
Comparative Reflections on the Entertainment Industry
During the podcast, Aslam also drew comparisons between Pakistani and Indian actors.
He argued that Indian actors benefit significantly from the robust support of their country, which has helped them achieve international fame and success.
In contrast, Pakistani artists face exploitation and lack the same level of support and recognition. In a conversation with fellow actor Adnan Shah Tipu, who has worked internationally,
Aslam noted that if Pakistani actors were paid fairly and provided with adequate security, they could match the stature of Bollywood icons like Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan.
Tipu concurred with Aslam’s assessment, underscoring the systemic issues within Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
A Call for Change
Mehmood Aslam’s reflections serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Pakistan and its entertainment industry.
His insights call for introspection and a reevaluation of how the country treats its citizens and artists. Aslam’s candid remarks underscore the need for systemic change to ensure that Pakistanis can take pride in their country and that its artists receive the recognition and support they deserve.
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