Dubai: Shouts of joy erupted when Pakistan's prince of pop Ali Zafar expressed his excitement and pride at his country winning its first Oscar this week.
"I would like to take this opportunity to share this moment of joy with all the Pakistanis here," said Zafar at a press conference in Dubai on Wednesday to promote his romantic comedy London Paris New York.
"Sharmeen [Obaid Chinoy] has won the first Oscar for us. Pakistan has won."
On Sunday, his countrywoman Obaid-Chinoy made history when her documentary short film Saving Face, about acid attacks on women, won an Academy Award. "We feel very proud - more proud because a woman is bringing it. Sharmeen - you have does us very proud… The new Pakistan is under construction and your win adds a lot of weight to it," said Zafar in an interview after the conference.
He added that he would always consider working in any meaningful documentary made by Pakistani filmmakers. Until now, his acting career in Bollywood has been dominated by comedies such as Meri Brother Ki Dulhan and Tere Bin Laden.
"More people like her should come into filmmaking … I would love to be a part of them," he said.
But at the moment, it was not a grim subject such as the one highlighted in the documentary that brought him to Dubai. His latest offering London Paris New York is a light romance which revolves around a young couple and their relationship angst. Belonging to two different worlds and temperaments, the tale is about two friends, who spend three nights over eight years in three different cities around the world.
"Some fairly nice, sweet people have made this film and we have executed it in a sweet, nice manner. I guarantee you that all those who see the film will walk out with a smile on their faces," said Zafar. He has also composed the film's score.
"Making the music for a film is different from cutting an album. My personal experiences - say the way a girl treated me in my life - inspires me to write music. But the process is hugely different," said Zafar who has hits including Channo and Rangeen to his credit. His co-star Aditi Rao Hydari is equally thrilled about her role. She plays sensible Mumbai-bred Lalitha in this love story.
"I thank Anu [director Menon] and everybody for taking such a leap of faith in me and giving me a character with so many shades in it. This film is full of fun, banter and goose-bumps," said Hydari. The duo were set to premiere the film on Wednesday night at Vox Cinemas in Deira City Centre and hit the nightclub Pulse at midnight to spread the word about their film.
"Dubai is a great place to premiere your film since it's the cultural hub and is right in the centre of the action. I can't wait for the party to start," said Zafar.
