Actor Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui has revealed that Abubakar has always had feelings for Zaryab in the smash hit drama Dar-e-Nijaat, with the character’s actions offering clues to his feelings despite his reservations about her.
Speaking to BBC Asian Network’s Haroon Rasheed, Sheheryar explained that he played Abubakar as someone whose heart and mind often pull him in different directions.
While Abubakar believes Zaryab does not fit the idea of the kind of girl he wants, the actor said that he has had feelings for her throughout the story.
Sheheryar pointed to scenes in which Abubakar looks at Zaryab during visits to her house, pointing out that the moments reflect his interest in her.
He also referred to a scene in which Abubakar remembers that Zaryab likes pasta, despite learning this from Kishwar Khala only once.
When Zaryab asks how he knows that she likes pasta, Abubakar recalls that Kishwar Khala had mentioned it. Sheheryar said that the detail was deliberately included to show that Abubakar pays attention to Zaryab because he likes her.
“Why would I remember if I didn’t like this girl,” he asked, explaining how he used such moments to establish the character’s feelings.
The actor also discussed Abubakar’s shortcomings, describing him as a people-pleaser who struggles to say no and feels responsible for helping those around him.
Sheheryar added that Abubakar’s behaviour stems partly from the way his mother raised him, teaching him that he must support others and step in when they need help.
The actor also acknowledged that he relates to the trait, admitting that he considers himself a people-pleaser too and finds it difficult to say no.
“I’m a people pleaser, and I know I have tough times saying no,” he said.
Written by Umera Ahmed and directed by Saqib Khan, Dar-e-Nijaat airs on ARY Digital and ARY Plus every Friday and Saturday.
The drama stars Sheheryar Munawar Siddiqui alongside Durefishan Saleem, Nameer Nawaz Khan, Sahar Hashmi, Romaisa Khan, Sania Saeed and Saba Hameed, among others.
