“My character takes decisions for everyone else in the film” – Pakistani actress Momal Sheikh on Happy Bhag Jayegi

By Joginder Tuteja -

August 12, 2016 - 3:55 PM IST

Promos of Happy Bhag Jayegi are on and they have managed to create an instant impression. While the film is being much awaited due to Diana Penty's comeback after Cocktail, another female who is finding good attention coming her way is Momal Sheikh. As Abhay Deol's love interest in the film, the actress has made her presence felt in the promo. Now she is looking forward to making it big in the industry as well with her debut Bollywood flick. Hailing from Pakistan, married and a mother of a kid, Momal is happy that she is enjoying the best of all worlds in her personal as well as professional life.

“My character takes decisions for everyone else in the film” – Pakistani actress Momal Sheikh on Happy Bhag Jayegi

Guess it was indeed an interesting role that came your way which you grab it as your debut Bollywood flick?
Yes, it is very interesting role and that's why I chose to do the film. Basically, when I was narrated the film and then got the script, I read it five times. I realized that it was a pretty decent role. What is truly interesting is that my character, Zoya, takes decisions for all others in the story (smiles). While everyone around me is in the haphazard mode, I am the only sensible one around. She is there to help, gauge the situation and then make good for everyone. As a matter of fact she also eventually decides that yeh ladki (Diana Penty) ultimately bhaag ke kiske paas jaayegi (laughs).

I am told that the makers were actually looking for some recommendations from your father (veteran Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh).
Yes. In fact when he was offered this film, he was also asked to find a girl from Pakistan since Zoya (the character that I play) had to be from the country. My father gave them a few names but then they were looking for more. He never gave my name to them though. Then they happened to find some pictures of mine on the internet and went back to him asking about my details. My father told them that he has never recommended his children since he wants them to earn a career on their own. Nonetheless, they contacted me and it was only then when I got to know about this entire incident (laughs).

In the film, you seem to be playing this fierce, modern, up-market, independent Pakistani girl. Were these some of the traits around your characterization that made you go for it?
Well, I would not say that this is exactly my personality. Yes, somewhere I am independent and take my decisions. However, at times I do take advice. I am a little different from what Zoya is. She is completely in love with Abhay (Deol).