Zaheer Iqbal on his acting journey: “I want to do different characters and good scripts, and I don't look at anything else”
Zaheer Iqbal, who made his Bollywood debut with Notebook in 2019, has reflected on his journey as an actor and how his approach to choosing films has evolved over the years. After starring in Double XL in 2022, the actor is now seen in the psychological thriller Tu Hai Meri Kiran. In an exclusive interview with HT Lifestyle, Zaheer spoke about his growing interest in acting, his career aspirations and his desire to explore diverse characters.
Discussing what attracted him to Tu Hai Meri Kiran, directed by Karan Rawal, Zaheer said, “The first thing that drew me was the fact that it gave me scope to perform and do something different, something that's not me at all in real life.” Reflecting on the preparation required for the role, he added, “Though I haven’t gone that deep into the psyche of the person, with workshops and direction, I was able to do justice to the character.”
The film explores the distinction between love and obsession, a subject on which Zaheer expressed strong views. “I completely disagree with the way this guy is in love and his obsession. I disagree with every single thing he said and did, and the way he said it and the way he did it.” He also emphasised the importance of recognising the difference between love and obsession in relationships.
Zaheer, who married actor Sonakshi Sinha in 2024, also spoke about the importance of understanding one's partner before marriage. Reflecting on their relationship, he said, “We dated for so long before our marriage, we knew all the good and the bad and the ugly about each other. So, there were no surprises, and I think that's how a marriage should be. I think you should get to know someone before you decide to spend the rest of your life with them because I genuinely believe that deciding who you marry is the biggest and the most important decision of your life,” he said.
Looking back at his career, Zaheer acknowledged that every film has contributed to his growth as an actor. “I learn with every passing film, especially by meeting new people, collaborating with directors and producers, and understanding how differently people work. Notebook taught me a lot, and I've used a lot of that learning in this film and that's why I've grown as an actor. I want to do different characters and good scripts, and I don't look at anything else.”
He also recalled how his initial expectations of becoming an actor changed after entering the industry. “When I became an actor, I wanted to be a hero and do the high-speed shots, the dancing and the glamour. That was a big part of it.” However, his priorities gradually shifted towards the craft itself. “But when I started working, I realised that I've fallen in love with acting, with wanting to act and play characters. Now, it's all about acting and being a good performer. I don't look at scripts in terms of whose character is more important or things like that. I just look for a good script and a good character for me to play,” he added.
While Zaheer hopes to explore action films, particularly those involving hand-to-hand combat, he also wants audiences to recognise his dedication to his work. “I don't think people have realised how hardworking and hungry I am. People see me travelling and enjoying life, but they don't see how driven I am when it comes to work. That's what I want people to see,” he said.
For Zaheer, success is not defined by professional achievements alone. “If I am happy, I am successful. I've always been happy as a person. I'm a very optimistic person, and because of that, I always feel I'm very successful,” he said.
Also Read : Tu Hai Meri Kiran to release in cinemas tomorrow as scheduled, producers Vishal Rana and Sarvesh Goel confirm
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