It is an undeniable fact that top notch performances are one of the biggest strengths of the mega hit The Legend of Maula Jatt. And while we continue to praise the Natts and the Jatts for their impeccable roles, it is equally important to mention the gripping tale of Rajjo, played by Saima Baloch.
A new face in the industry, Saima’s character is an important part of a crucial scene in the film, and viewers were surprised by her performance. In an interview with Hassan Choudhry of Something Haute, Saima shared how elated she is as an artist to receive love for her work.
Saima has only done two films prior to this mega project namely Hijrat (2013) and Betabiyan (2019). Other than that, she has only worked in commercials. But her journey started when she was six years old and she believes that art and artist have a divine connection that cannot be man-made.
“I believe art is universal as it can speak to any human, not just the people in Pakistan. I believe I was destined to become an artist. I belong to a very spiritual Baloch family and it was obvious to face restrictions when I wanted to enter media because it is a norm to not leave the house in our family. So, I had a conversation with them that I will not forget my roots and my connection with Allah; I just want to pursue my own path. Now, I am back to my house and I live with my family,” she explained.
She entered the entertainment business with a reality show Nachle for which she auditioned but did not appear in any dramas later on.
“I once went to a set to see how dramas are filmed but I was not able to understand how a sensitive artist like me can perform in such a mechanical environment. There is no time to prepare for a role or feel a character. This is the reason why I never worked in a drama,” she said.
Saima shared that our industry works on connections and people expect you to socialize and attend parties. “I made a promise to my mother and I cannot break her trust and go to these parties. Unfortunately, 99% of the times this is how people get offers.”
Her role in Maula Jatt
“Ammara called me and offered me Rajjo as she heard that I can dance. I sent her my audition and I was selected instantly. But when she sent me the rest of the part, I was a little disappointed that there were dialogues in only one scene. The rest was all game of expressions. I knew when I heard the name that it is a legendary film but I was already fed up of the film industry and wasn’t looking forward to such a small role. So, I refused the role and Ammara kept asking me to reconsider,” she shared.
Her reservations
“Then, I approached the role with a new thought that what should I do to make Rajjo memorable. Again, I waited 4 years for this film to release as well. However, the commitment wasn’t fulfilled as they cut majority of my dance sequence. Also, I was told that they will take me in every promotion but I wasn’t invited anywhere. The promotional events were not done on the basis of lead roles, but more on friendships.”
She voiced her grievances and shared that her manager had to fought for her separate poster and premiere invites as well. “Despite all that, I am being recognized for my work and I am grateful to the Almighty.”
Her work experience
Despite her differences, Saima praised that she loved working on set. “I was respected and given space while working. Bilal is a genius director and he also considers his work a worship, like me. People like us need peace on set and it was given to us,” she acknowledged.
“I rehearsed for that dance for one month and then I rehearsed everyday in my room as well because I wanted to master it. I did all my scenes in one go. Rehan Bashir is my choreographer and then I had my own input; this is my own creation.”
Watch the full interview:
