DIAMOND
Are some people born to be better than others? Or do they
have a formula for succes that keeps them ahead? It takes dedication, discipline and a positive attitude to lead a fulfilling and rewarding life, combine this with a series of good habits, and anyone can become a successful all rounder, bowling out challenges in life and hitting sixes that help define great success at work, at play and at home. As part of Diamond Foam’s 40th Year Anniversary celebrating it’s success in pioneering sleep systems that make the lives of everyday Pakistanis better, we take a peek at the lives of some of Pakistan’s Top Icons and Personalities, and share their formula for becoming an all rounder in life.
ADNAN SIDDIQUI
Q. As one of the most recognizable talents on Pakistani Television, You are regarded as one of the best character actors around today. What do you perceive to be your greatest strength that has driven your accomplishments over the last 2 decades, while keeping you focused and still going strong at this stage of your career? A. I’m not sure what you mean by “character” actor since I’m still appearing as a traditional hero on screen. Regardless, focus and dedication are key. This is something that the younger generation tends to overlook. Success does not come overnight, it’s a slow, complicated process with ups and
downs. But, mainly, you have to love what you do and demonstrate a commitment that matches the passion. Q. As a husband and a parent, it always hectic to juggle your career with your family. How do you find a balance between your professional commitments and family life, and how important and influential has been the role of your family and loved ones in supporting this extraordinary journey you are on? A. Becoming a father, and being a father, has been one of the biggest joys of my life. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my kids thriving, smiling, being happy and healthy. I look at them and they give me energy to keep working, to keep pressing on. Q. Achieving success comes with great dedication and personal sacrifice. What in your opinion is your greatest sacrifice and
how do you manage or have overcome to make that a “positive strength” in your life instead of a reflection of weakness? A. It’s next to impossible to
Why? A. My claim to fame was “Uroosa.” But the most challenging role was in “Zeb-un-Nisa” I played the role of a mediocre man going through
compensate for the drudgery of hard work. I am often on set for twelve hours straight, on my feet. This requires tremendous stamina, both physical and mental. I would have loved to have gotten classical training for singing, for example, but I just haven’t had the time. But that doesn’t stop me from singing! I play the flute, the harmonium, percussion, and I sing, and though I am no professional, I derive a lot of satisfaction from doing so. Music really is the best nourishment for the soul.
several hardships. That’s when people began to take me seriously as an actor. Q.With so many actors and actresses coming through on Pakistani Television and Cinema, who are the names that come to mind when thinking about the Next wave of Cinematic Icons on screen, and what do you think makes them unique? A. Today’s generation is smarter in many ways than my generation. They are strategic and savvy about the kind of work they want to do. As far as cinematic icons go, I can’t decide who’s going to be the next big icon—the public decides. And that’s all that matters. Q. What do you do to manage stress when things get tough? A. I choose the company of my loved ones. A hug from a loved one can relieve all the stress in the world. Q.With such a busy life, how much sleep do you manage to get every night, and how important do you consider sleep is for maintaining a healthy and a successful career, while keeping your fresh appeal in tact? Do you have any particular fitness or sleep regimes? A. If I get five hours of sleep, I’m good to go. I’m a big nap taker, and you will often see me snoozing on set—ten minutes here, fifteen minutes there. These naps are completely energizing for me. And I have a regular fitness regime; I do free weights and I go on long bike rides. Q. Describe yourself to the world, using any 5 words. A. Relaxed, playful, romantic,
. Q. In your opinion what defines a man? A. Strength of character, a man is defined by his willingness to take risk and to work hard for his goals with dignity. Q. Given a choice what’s your favorite type of role or character that you would like to play, and do you feel you are better suited to certain genres? A. A good actor should be like water: he should be able to settle into any and every type of role he is given. Q. What has been the most fulfilling role you have played on screen, and
intense, an optimist. Q. The Media often portrays the negative side of Pakistan. What in your opinion makes Pakistan great? And what is your message of hope for the future? A. You often hear people calling Pakistan a resilient nation and there is truth in this. The novelist Nadeem Aslam recently said, “No nation should require its citizens to be so brave.” But we have seen so much trauma, especially recently, that survival is in our DNA. This country needs to move forward. Living and working in Karachi, I see how we work despite the circumstances.
Difficulty of any kind—censorship, state violence—engenders creativity. I think this applies to Pakistan. Around the world, in the midst of darkness, people continue to work, create, inspire. Look at the revival of cinema in Iran—they are making extraordinary movies in the most stifling and restriciting environment. I feel and hope the same for Pakistan. Our difficulties will make us stronger, more creative. Q. What’s Next for you? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? A. All I know is that I don’t give up. Equally, I am capable of accepting reality with grace. I’m sure wherever I am, I will be as relaxed, as intense, as romantic :)
an initiative
A concept by purple arts & communication