Daniyal Khan has the proverbial blue-blooded lineage that is the envy of every performing artist in Pakistani film and television. But in his case, with it also comes great humility and all the hard work it takes to carve a niche in the performing arts and earn a name as a successful artist.

Of course, he has the blessings and support of his grandmother, film star of yore Rozina, and that of his mother, TV actress Saima Qureshi, but apart from guiding him and pointing him in the right direction and giving him sound career advice whenever he needs it, Daniyal knows it’s pretty much up to him. That is, along with the blood, sweat and tears it takes to navigate his career in the right direction.

You have big shoes to fill being Rozina’s grandson and having Saima Qureshi as your mother, and also being related to film and TV actor Faysal Quraishi. What is your plan of action?

Daniyal Khan: I’m fortunate to have such talented people in the family and my plan is to learn from them, take their advice and to become the best version of myself.

What characters attract you the most. Who would you like to play on screen?

DK: I’ve played very positive roles so far. Something negative or maybe even a comic role would definitely interest me now.

Daniyal Khan comes from a famous lineage but is more than willing to put in the blood, sweat and tears his acting career requires rather than expect preferential treatment as a nepo baby…

So do you aim for particular roles or do you take them as they come your way?

DK: At this time, I’m making sure that I play characters that have a visible impact on the story. I’m not looking for lead roles at the moment. I have a timeline and I am working on improving my acting until I’m ready to lead.

Who is the one actor/actress you would love to work with. Why?

DK: I would love to work with Saba Qamar and also Zahid Ahmed, simply because they are legends in their own right.

Have you ever been tempted to try out anything besides television, such as theatre, music, etc?

DK: No, never. I’ve done theatre at university and college level but, apart from that, I don’t think I’ll fit into anything.

Are films a strict no-no or are you biding your time and waiting for the right project to come along?

I don’t take it as my birthright. I’m treated with respect and I am very thankful to everyone who treats me that way. But that is it! I have never received special favours or preferential treatment. I audition for every character, just like everyone else.”

DK: Films are a big ‘yes’ for me. I’m waiting for the right role, preferably one which majorly affects the storyline and has good screen time.

Given a choice, would you play the lover boy or an action hero in films?

DK: Honestly, I could do both!

What do you like to watch when it comes to TV and films?

DK: I try to keep up with the new Pakistani dramas and learn from my screen idols. Other than that, I’m mostly tuned into Netlfix.

How important a role do Rozina and your mother play in the selection of roles when it comes to your acting career?

DK: Obviously, I consult my Nani [Rozina] and mother and take their advice on everything. But my Nani has taken a step back from everything now.

Are you satisfied with your career trajectory?

DK: I have just started off and there’s still a long way to go.

Are you romantically inclined? Do you see yourself settling down anytime soon?

DK: Not at the moment, but I’m hoping that, within the span of the next three years, I’d like to settle down, and also continue to work as an actor.

What kind of a relationship do you have with Faysal Quraishi?

DK: Best friends, truly! I love him to death, and he has always been my biggest support.

As a star kid, have you ever received preferential treatment and protocol?

DK: I don’t take it as my birthright. I’m treated with respect and I am very thankful to everyone who treats me that way. But that is it! I have never received special favours or preferential treatment. I audition for every character, just like everyone else.

What advice would you give to newcomers in the TV drama industry?

DK: Please join only if you have the utmost passion for becoming an actor and if you can be patient. Otherwise, it’s a big no-no.

What do you think the future holds for you? Where do you see yourself in the foreseeable future?

DK: Definitely acting. I’ve given myself five years. You can mark the date and see I was right in the next five years!

Published in Dawn, ICON, January 21th, 2024