Salman Saqib Sheikh, widely known as Mani, possesses an enchanting charm that effortlessly captivates audiences and forms an instant connection. His relatability transcends boundaries, making him universally appealing to individuals from all walks of life.
With his genuine and down-to-earth persona, Mani bridges the gap between viewers and himself, forging an immediate bond that keeps them spellbound. His ability to connect on a personal level is truly extraordinary, making him an irresistible force on the screen.
During our conversation, I had the privilege of exploring Mani’s remarkable journey in the Pakistani media industry. Renowned for his acting prowess, anchoring skills, hosting finesse, and exceptional comedic talent, Mani boasts an impressive array of achievements. With numerous feathers in his cap, his talent and versatility know no bounds.
So, without further ado, let’s immerse ourselves in the captivating world of Mani!
Let’s start by discussing the origins of your acting journey. Could you share what initially ignited your passion for acting?
It all began with my sister, Aisha, who was deeply involved in theatre. I had the opportunity to attend one of her performances, and the magical atmosphere of the theater left a lasting impression on me. I was captivated by the energy and creativity on display. This experience sparked a fire within me and inspired me to explore the world of acting, setting me on a path that would shape my life.
My fascination grew when I had the chance to make a minor appearance for the esteemed theatre group Katha, alongside talented individuals like Sania Saeed and Nadia Jamil.
You have also made a name for yourself as a versatile host, captivating audiences with your road shows, game shows, and corporate events. How did you venture into hosting, and what valuable insights did you gain from those experiences?
Hosting came naturally to me as I have always had a knack for connecting with people and creating an engaging atmosphere. It all started with road shows like Streets, which aired on Indus Vision in 2001.
From there, I ventured into hosting shows like Road Romeo on ATV and Sarak Chaap on Geo TV, along with hosting corporate events. Each opportunity provided valuable insights into the art of hosting.
I learned the importance of spontaneity, adaptability, and quick thinking. Interacting with diverse audiences enriched my understanding of human nature and the power of effective communication. Hosting also allowed me to refine my comedic timing and improvisational skills, which have been instrumental in my journey as a performer.
Overall, it has been an incredible learning experience that has shaped me both personally and professionally.
Among the shows you mentioned, which one would you consider a turning point in your career?
The show that truly became a turning point in my career was Streets. It was a road show that took place on the streets and quickly gained popularity. We brought a fresh approach to questioning and interacting with people, showcasing candid discussions that were not common at the time. Our aim was to present the truth to the audience.
Within two weeks, the trendsetting show became a hit. As a writer for PTV, I had worked on various shows and dramas, but many of them didn’t last long due to their bold and reality-based nature. However, Streets broke through those barriers and opened doors for me in the industry. It marked a significant milestone in my career and paved the way for future opportunities.
Let’s dive into your journey and explore some of your notable experiences. Can you share your experience working on “Sub Set Hai” a groundbreaking show that became a superhit?
Sub Set Hai marked the beginning of my journey, coinciding with the emergence of Indus Music. Directed by Azfar Ali, this sitcom, featuring me, Tipu, and Salma, broke new ground and became one of the most successful dramas of the 2000s.
It served as a catalyst for other modern sitcoms in Pakistan’s history, setting a new standard for entertainment.
You mentioned being a part of the first talk show “Mannism” on Indus Music. Could you tell us more about that experience?
Yes, Mannism was Indus Music’s inaugural talk show. We introduced the concept of trolling, discussing politics, sports, and other trending topics of the week. We even had improvised episodes, which was quite unusual at the time.
Our efforts paid off, and the audience loved it. During that period, we witnessed the rise of trolling culture and tensions between singers and actors vying for the spotlight.
What incredible discoveries did “The Azfar Mani Show” bring to light, leaving audiences in awe and craving for more?
In the ever-evolving world of theater, my acting was often praised for its natural and effortless style. However, when I transitioned to PTV shows, there was a tendency to mold and change that essence. It felt like a creative straitjacket, stifling my individuality. But rather than conforming, Azfar and I decided to break free from those constraints and blaze our own trail.
We embarked on an audacious journey, defying conventions and tearing down the walls of traditionalism. The birth of The Azfar Mani Show was our defiant response to the norms that confined us.
Together, we shattered established rules and embraced a fresh and unorthodox approach. We infused our performances with a rebellious spirit, incorporating daring improvisations and audacious storytelling in every episode.
Did you ever feel intimidated or concerned about the potential trolling and criticism due to your involvement in daring and bold shows?
I have approached all my acting roles with utmost confidence and without fear. I have had the conviction that I can create compelling content. My aim was to ensure that whatever I created stood out, unlike anything seen before. Therefore, we strived to make it incredibly distinct from the norm.
Have you ever encountered any funny moments on set?
Haha, many! We received letters from PEMRA (Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority) and faced challenges from political parties like MQM. We even had a radio show on FM96, but it got discontinued when some boys approached us to take over the show.
Among the numerous roles you’ve portrayed, which ones hold a special place in your heart?
I would say Bobby from Sub Set Hai, and the unforgettable G.A Mahajir from Money Back Guarantee have garnered immense love and admiration. These roles have truly left an indelible mark on both the audience and myself.
Working alongside Hira on various projects must have been an incredible experience. Could you share your thoughts on collaborating with her? How did you enjoy the banter and chemistry between your characters?
Collaborating with Hira has been an exhilarating journey filled with excitement! The synergy we bring to the screen is truly captivating, igniting a spark that adds an extra touch of magic to our scenes. The exceptional bond we share as husband and wife translates effortlessly, resulting in a dynamic and enthralling on-camera presence.
Hira is not only a gifted co-star and my spouse but also a cherished friend. Together, we have navigated the unpredictable journey of this industry, supporting each other through triumphs and challenges alike.
Witnessing her incredible evolution, from our humble beginnings to her current stature, where she stands alongside renowned figures and delivers awe-inspiring performances, fills me with profound admiration and joy.
You had the amazing opportunity to be a part of the film “Money Back Guarantee”. How was your experience working on that project?
Working on the film Money Back Guarantee was an absolute delight! I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Faisal Qureshi for entrusting me with the role of G.A Mahajir. It was truly an honor to be part of such a talented and accomplished cast. Every member of the ensemble brought their A-game, creating a phenomenal and memorable experience.
The camaraderie among the cast was extraordinary. We developed a strong bond, and that chemistry effortlessly translated onto the screen. Each actor brought their own unique flair and talent, resulting in a powerful and captivating performance.
Have you received any offers from India?
Regrettably, just as Hira and I began receiving offers, the COVID pandemic emerged, significantly impacting the entertainment industry. As a result, the offers and opportunities that came our way were met with unprecedented challenges, leading to the unfortunate outcome of many projects falling through and not coming to fruition as we had initially anticipated.
How do you manage the demanding roles of both a father and an actor?
It’s akin to performing a daring high-wire act, infused with a touch of enchantment! I’ve mastered the art of time management, conducting it like a skilled maestro guiding an orchestra. When it comes to my children, I make it a priority to provide them with the education and opportunities they desire, while also allowing them the freedom to pursue their passions.
As an actor, I bring the same unwavering dedication and commitment to my craft. I gracefully tread the tightrope of balancing family and work, skillfully navigating through scenes and the challenges of parenting.
You also have an excellent taste in TV shows. Which shows are your favorites?
I’m a huge fan of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. The morally intricate journey of Walter White in Breaking Bad and the brilliant transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman in Better Call Saul have kept me on the edge of my seat.
Are you planning any tours in the future?
Certainly! Hira and I plan to visit England and America in the coming months.
Hira-Mani fans are always eager to learn about your upcoming projects. Can you share any details about your upcoming ventures?
Absolutely! We have two highly anticipated projects in the works that we’re eagerly anticipating. Firstly, there’s Sajan Mehr, a film directed by the immensely talented Nabeel Qureshi, slated for release on Bakra Eid. This film is poised to captivate and entertain the audience with its unique storyline and compelling performances.
Secondly, we’re thrilled to be working on Babylicious, a project close to our hearts, produced by Coconut Entertainment, a company co-founded by Hira, me, and our friend Essa. As the project progresses, we can’t wait to share more details. The concept of Babylicious is intriguing, and we strongly believe it will offer viewers a fresh and enjoyable experience.
What advice would you like to give to young actors?
To all the aspiring young actors out there, let me begin by saying that you are already shining brightly in the industry. It fills me with awe and pride to witness the abundance of talent and unwavering passion that thrives in our field. Actors like Wahaj Ali, Tabish Hashmi, and many others are leaving their indelible mark, and I couldn’t be more delighted with their achievements.
If there’s one valuable piece of advice I would like to share with you, it is this:
Give your utmost between “action” and “cut.” When you step onto the stage or in front of the camera, immerse yourself entirely in your character’s world.
Bring them to life with authenticity and unwavering conviction. Stay attuned, actively listen to your fellow actors, and respond in the moment.
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