Sanam Saeed reflects on Cannes debut, online trolls and evolving career in showbiz

13 hours ago 1

ARTICLE AD BOX

Actor says Cannes aim was to shape global perception of Pakistan, and celebrate South Asian women and artisans

photo screengrab

PHOTO: Screengrab

Sanam Saeed highlighted Pakistan’s cultural representation on global platforms, reflecting on her Cannes debut, evolving screen roles, and the challenges of online trolling during a recent appearance on PTV.

Speaking about her attendance at the Cannes Film Festival, Sanam said she and designer Hussain Rehar aimed to present Pakistan’s heritage on an international stage. “We wanted to highlight his fashion segment because it wasn’t just fashion. We wanted to focus on our heritage and traditional work,” she said, adding that much of global luxury fashion draws inspiration from regions like Pakistan without due recognition.

She further noted that their broader goal was to shape international perception of Pakistani talent. “The point of going to Cannes this year was to show people where Pakistanis stand globally,” she said, adding that the focus was on celebrating South Asian women and artisans behind traditional craftsmanship.

Also Read: Shaan Shahid calls for original storytelling in Pakistani cinema

Describing the demands of the festival, Sanam said the experience required strict coordination and preparation. “You had to follow a very tight schedule—from getting a car on time, making sure you have your outfits, to catching flights. In these cases, there is no plan B,” she said, adding that the team’s intent remained clear throughout.

She also addressed criticism and online trolling, reflecting on remarks about her appearance. “The worst they called me was ‘Koji’, but they are not really trolling me—they are commenting on the Creator,” she said. “I have a classic Pakistani face.”

Turning to her career, Sanam reflected on her breakthrough role as Kashaf in Zindagi Gulzar Hai, saying the character continues to resonate because of its reflection of real social divides. “We see them a lot—people from privileged backgrounds while others are fighting different battles. Yet both are trying to reach the same point,” she said.

She added that while privilege shapes opportunity, circumstances of birth remain beyond individual control, particularly in academic and social environments.

Discussing her recent role in Kafeel, Sanam said playing a mother of four was a new experience, praising the energy and professionalism of her younger co-stars. “All of the children became best friends… they were very good actors and very professional,” she said.

She also spoke about Mai Manto Nahi Hoon, marking her first collaboration with Humayun Saeed and Sajal Ali, noting that she deliberately chose not to immediately pursue lead roles after a gap. “I had gotten tired of doing intense roles,” she said, describing her character Miss Maria as warm and approachable.

The conversation also touched on director Nadeem Baig’s experience of working with her opposite Saeed, with Sanam hinting at possible future collaborations.

The episode concluded with Sanam reflecting on her journey across television, film, and fashion, emphasising her focus on meaningful storytelling and representing Pakistani talent and culture on global platforms.

Read Entire Article