Director Asim Abbasi just announced a new and very unexpected collaboration for his upcoming Zee5 web series. The currently untitled series will feature rapper Muhammad Shah, of Butt Karahi fame, who is making his acting debut in the industry (both Pakistan and India simultaneously) through the show.
Asim Abbasi’s much anticipated series is garnering attention for more than one reason. Firstly, it stars a power couple of Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed as lead pair. Secondly, Asim has been introducing new faces which are featuring in his web series in an innovative way on his social media.
For those who don’t know about Shah, the director introduced him on Instagram in detail.
“Ours is not a story about Garmi, Hania or Alia. But these are the titles/subjects of the ingenious songs by the very witty, and the very strange Muhammad Shah – his utter uniqueness caught our eyes and ears during the casting phase. Watching his first audition tape confirmed that this one is an oddball in the bestest sense of the word,” he wrote.
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Shah rose to fame when he got a shoutout from Alia Bhatt after he made a rap video about her. The actress appreciated the video and had commented “Bahut hard” on his video. This comment went viral on the internet making Shah popular in the subcontinent including India.
“Shah was equal parts mysterious and hilarious over the many months we spent together in Hunza. His hard work, commitment and undying energy even in the toughest of locations were always great fun to watch. Truly a chameleon in the ways he would adapt. His impromptu remixes of the dialogues into songs were the icing on the cake,” Asim shared.
“I miss your presence, Shah… Alone in the hotel lobby…. Those piercing eyes… The knife in your hand,” he concluded on a mysterious note.
Shah, is a rapper with a comedic streak, which is quite obvious in his songs. However, his post on Instagram is evidence that Asim has made the right casting decision.
“When I was told Asim Abbasi desperately wanted me in his new web series, the first thing I did was check my schedule (I’m never not busy). Finally I agreed and willingly stayed in Hunza for almost a year. I’m a method actor as you all know, so I was in character throughout. I started a life there, got married and became a farmer,” he wrote.
“But like all good things, this too had to end. With a heavy heart I left my new family with my character in Hunza when the shoot ended. I miss them sometimes but the life of an actor is a rather difficult one. But if I was someone who had never really acted before, I would’ve been truly grateful for this opportunity… especially if I was making “songs” about Garmi or Butt Karahi.”
“PS: Alia Bhatt and I have more things in common now,” he added and we agree!
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Read: It’s a wrap for Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed’s upcoming Zee5 web series
Popularly known for his quirky videos and social media content, Muhammad Shah will be seen playing an integral role in the series, according to the official press release.
Speaking about the series, Muhammad Shah commented: “This show is very close to my heart, especially because I have tried something very different from what I have been used to. Looking forward to the audience’s response just like the love and recognition I have received for my rap compositions. I am very excited to work alongside seasoned actors like Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed and am glad to receive the opportunity.”
Asim Abbasi’s show blends together magical realism and supernatural fantasy within a family reunion setting, and deals with themes of love, loss and reconciliation.
The series will be launched on ZEE5 later this year.
