Ms. Namita Nayyar:
The Reham Khan Show, a programme celebrating Pakistani heroes, debuted in May 2015, which was a truly inspirational show for one and all. Share your experience as a host, also share a moment from the show that truly inspired you?
Ms. Reham Khan:
After a political link, I moved to a non-political show. The idea was to show the other side of celebrities and also unsung heroes. The shows were memorable as we showcased women rights activists like Gulalei Ismail, and the female mountaineer Samina Baig. I was most inspired by the very humble and shy singer-turned-education activist Shehzad Roy. I count him as one of the few intelligent people I have come across in life. We all knew he was a talented, good-looking celebrity but when he opened up about his philosophy of life and his passion for improving the education system on my show, I became a fan. We saw him for what he really was: a hero. He and I remain very good buddies and I think he is one of the few visionary change-makers we have in the country.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You became a producer with the Pakistani film “Janaan”, the romantic comedy set in Swat which premiered on the occasion of Eid ul Adha on 13 September 2016. Tell us more about your introduction to production world and what inspired you for the same?
Ms. Reham Khan:
I have always believed that cinema is the most powerful medium in shaping our ideology and behaviour. In Pakistan, it has been a neglected area for years. I believed that it was time for us to tell our own stories. I am of Swati origin, which is a region that has been the subject of a lot of negative news in recent times. I wanted a positive story that represented the sensibilities of Swatis. The valley has long been appreciated for its beauty, and as a seat of learning. Janaan was a labour of love.
I put in hour upon hour of work on that film, combing the commissioned script for any kind of misogynistic or intolerant message. Viewers may have noticed that all four of the leading ladies were actually the protagonists. The film also reflects some of my missions in life, such as the eradicating of child abuse. Sexual abuse is highlighted sensitively in the film, and the conflict is resolved by the whole community, not by the male lead. I felt it prudent to subvert common filmmaking ideas and tropes to create something unique and innovative in the story. In fact, I always try to make each of my projects special, so Janaan was never going to be a typical, forgettable film. It was also important to highlight the Pushtu language, and bring it into mainstream cinema.
Video
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
