Recently, Pakistani actress Humaima Malik opened up about her return to television after a 12-year break with the drama series “Jindo”, in which she plays a powerful woman opposing patriarchal standards. During an in-depth interview with BBC Urdu, Malik discussed her decision to play this unusual main character, praising director Anjum Shahzad.
Anjum contacted Malik for the part unexpectedly after Aamina Sheikh, the first option, had to decline due to personal circumstances. According to Malik, it felt like destiny had aligned for her to take on this role.
“I think I was a very suitable choice for Jindo, for a role that embarks on so many journeys, faces so many struggles in not just one relationship but simultaneously as a sister, a mother, a wife, an independent girl, a self-sufficient woman, a voice of courage, a woman who stands for everyone,” Malik said.
She emphasised that many people encouraged her to avoid roles like Jindo, which are based in other cultures and isolated locations. Malik, on the other hand, was certain that good content would always find an audience. “All our dedication and effort gave this project its distinct flavour and people can see that. This is why the reception has been incredible,” she went on to say.
One episode of Jindo, depicting the emotional toll of dragging her dead spouse across the desert, strongly impacted viewers. Malik took delight in doing her own stunts, due to her earlier experience in swordplay and horseback riding for the film “Maula Jatt”.
“They are taking to the series so well that I can’t believe it,” Malik said of the audience’s reaction. She further commented that it takes some time for viewers to connect with Jindo’s story, but once they do, the reactions are genuinely heartwarming and that she’s glad the team’s hard work bore fruit.
