In an exclusive interview with Dino Ali, actor Namra Shahid disclosed that Saba Qamar has always been her role model and biggest inspiration, sharing that she manifested the opportunity to work alongside the acclaimed star. Namra opened up about her admiration for Saba, explaining that although they are now close friends, she once studied Saba's performances to improve her own acting skills.
Manifesting a Dream Collaboration
“Saba Qamar was my idol and mentor. I always wanted to work with her. From the very beginning, she has always been my favourite. I sort of manifested that I would work with her, and when it happened, God made that project successful, and now we are good friends”, Namra revealed.
Taking on the Maid Role in Muamma
Reflecting on her role as the viral maid in the drama Muamma, Namra shared that many actors had turned down the supporting role opposite Saba, but she never viewed it as a disadvantage. “The role was of a maid, and nobody wanted to play it. They approached many brilliant actors, but they declined for two reasons: first, because the character was a maid, and second, because they felt Saba would outshine the role,” she said. Explaining why she accepted the part, Namra said she simply could not pass up the chance to work with Saba and never expected the drama to become such a major success. “I thought that I was doing it for Saba because I always wanted to work with her and people will like it for the amazing story. I didn’t think it would be a hit. I wasn’t expecting it”, she said.
Studying Saba’s Craft
Namra also revealed that her directors encouraged her to study actors she admired to refine her craft. “I am not lying when I say that I would stay up until three in the morning watching Saba’s dramas. She has been my mentor from day one,” she confessed. However, Namra clarified that watching Saba's performances was never about imitation. “I wasn't copying her. I was simply inspired by her,” she said.
An Unforgettable First Shoot
The actor also recalled an unforgettable moment from their first shoot together. “There was a scene where she was explaining why her character was the way she was. During that scene, I was just staring at her,” Namra said, admitting she was left in complete awe. “Then the director yelled, ‘Cut!’ and asked what I was doing. She was performing so brilliantly that I was completely mesmerised,” she recalled.
A Decade-Long Journey
Looking back on her decade-long journey in the entertainment industry, Namra acknowledged that success did not come overnight. She credited her growth and increasing popularity to her family and the opportunity to work alongside talented actors, directors, and producers throughout her career.
