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MUMBAI: How has been the experience so far playing the role of Zafar on Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga?
The experience has been really fulfilling and great. I count Zafar has one of my best roles so far in my 20 years in the industry. I continue to learn a lot through this character, and I like the fact that Zafar makes me push my boundaries. It is challenging and sometimes exhausting as well since the character is so strong and completely different than who I am as a person. But the love and support that the role has received makes the entire experience really rewarding.
Also read: Zafar takes over the role of a headmaster on Sony SAB’s Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga
How has your character transitioned from the first episode till date?
Zafar’s character arc has transitioned beautifully. Our viewers have seen different shades of Zafar. While he was a fairly simple antagonist in the beginning, he has now turned darker and stronger. His look, his confidence, his command has all witnessed a change and while the story has progressed, our viewers have also witnessed Zafar’s growth as a powerful enemy. Zafar as emerged as an Aiyaar who holds immense powers. He is on a quest to find to Kala Chirag to become the only indispensable ruler of Baghdad. It has truly been a great ride so far and I continue to go do great work with this character.
What do you love about this new phase of Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga?
The most exciting part about this new chapter of Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga is the fact how the tables have turned. Zafar is on a quest to find a kala chirag and now his key to his mission will be Aladdin. I love the fact that all of us have new costumes of this chapter and I am really enjoying this edgy look of Zafar.
What is the most challenging thing about your role as Zafar?
Zafar is not an easy character to play. The approach that I have taken to play Zafar is challenging. The role is so intense that it can be really taxing for your mind and heart. The initial 1-1.5 years were really difficult for me to keep switching between the reel and real life. Mentally it does take a toll on me and sometimes takes a part of Aamir Dalvi. We shoot for several days a month so it is sometimes difficult to get time to unwind and take Zafar out of my mind. But the hard work and effort continues to be appreciated by our fans and viewers and I am immensely grateful for that.
Zafar despite being an antagonist has been winning love and appreciation. How do you feel about that? What is the best compliment you have received so far?
I am often told by all the fans and viewers – We love to hate you and this is one of the biggest compliment for me. But most importantly, seeing that smile on my mother’s face after every episode is very rewarding. She isn’t biased towards my performance. She really notices my performance and likes to appreciate and I think that is a biggest compliment for me.
What has been the most challenging phase in your career?
The most challenging phase was when after 2 years of working as an artist in the television industry, I had to go back to do a job at a call center. That phase taught me a lot and prepared for any uncertain and sudden change of events in life.
Also read: Zafar succeeds to open the 1st door of Raaz-e-Kainat on Sony SAB’s Aladdin: Naam Toh Suna Hoga
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