Our youth has been ruined by Indian films esp of Salman - Pak actor

PHOTO:PUBLICITY

LAHORE: In a somewhat interesting turn of events, popular Pakistani actors Rabi Pirzada and Naseem Vicky have decided to collaborate on an Urdu film, shooting for which will reportedly begin soon. The duo made the announcement during a press conference at Lahore Press Club, adding that they are currently finalising the cast for the yet-to-be-titled film.

According to both Rabi and Naseem, the aim behind this latest venture is to revive the dwindling film industry of Lahore, which was once the hub of Pakistani entertainment. They are also hoping to stimulate viewership for local cinema in the country.

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Rabi claimed that Pakistan's preference for Indian films has gradually been ruining its youth, who are completely forgetting their culture and traditions. "Every other film released in Bollywood happens to be about crime or some criminal activities, especially films of Salman Khan. My question is, what are Indian film-makers teaching the youth? It seems like they are just promoting crime," she stated. "There was a time when Pakistani cinema was at its peak, making films with moral lessons and plots highlighting social ethics. We were educating the society through our films but Bollywood has changed all of that."

The singer and actor explained that this is why she decided to join hands with Naseem. "We decided we will produce a story that carries a special lesson for Pakistani children," Rabi said. "There is no shortage of talent in our country. Naseem is writing the script of this film himself and soon, the cast will be finalised as well."

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Naseem echoed Rabi's sentiments adding that Lollywood was once a great film industry that churned out some excellent films and actors. It suffered a slump over the last couple of decades but now that it has turned over a new leaf, the time is right to make a socially-aware film.

"The revival of our film industry has started and Rabi and I wish it to flourish here in Lahore once again. There is a dire need for us to produce films that attract viewers and that is what we will try our best to do with our joint venture. We will try to bring the audience back to cinema," shared Naseem. "You see, while Lollywood might have come alive again, it is still yet to produce a feature film that sheds light on the Pakistani identity. I am hopeful that in the coming months, Lahore will become the hub of local film-making again," he added.

Rabi also revealed her recently composed new song Rashk-e-Qamar at the press conference.