Web Desk: Actor and producer Sheheryar Munawar has shed light on the emotional complexities of his character Abubakar and confirmed that the character has romantic feelings for Zaryab in ARY Digital’s drama series Dar-e-Nijat.
In a recent interview with BBC journalist Haroon Rasheed, Munawar explained how he portrayed Abubakar’s affection through subtle gestures and seemingly insignificant details rather than relying solely on direct declarations of love.
The actor said Abubakar has loved Zaryab from the beginning, even though his practical judgment often makes him question whether she fits the kind of partner he believes he should choose.
Munawar explained that he deliberately incorporated understated moments into Abubakar’s performance to help viewers recognise his feelings for Zaryab.
For instance, he pointed to a scene in which the two characters go out for lunch. Abubakar remembers that Zaryab likes pasta, prompting her to ask how he knows. He explains that he recalls hearing about her preference from Kishwar Khala.
According to Munawar, the exchange reveals more about Abubakar’s emotional attachment than the character openly admits. Remembering such a personal detail, the actor suggested, reflects the attention Abubakar pays to Zaryab.
However, Abubakar’s feelings do not necessarily translate into straightforward romantic decisions. Munawar said the character’s heart draws him towards Zaryab, while his mind raises doubts about whether she matches his expectations.
This internal conflict, the actor explained, helps account for moments when Abubakar expresses reservations about the type of woman he wants in his life, despite his underlying affection for her.
Beyond the romantic storyline, Munawar described Abubakar as an imperfect person whose desire to please others influences his behaviour.
He said the character struggles to refuse requests and feels a persistent responsibility to meet other people’s expectations. Munawar also acknowledged that he personally finds it difficult to say no, describing people-pleasing as a tendency many people may recognise in themselves.
Furthermore, the actor associated Abubakar’s behaviour with what he described as a saviour complex. He suggested that the character’s upbringing, particularly the values instilled by his mother, has shaped his belief that he must intervene whenever someone needs help.
As a result, Abubakar often feels compelled to rescue others, support them through difficulties and take responsibility for their problems. Munawar’s interpretation presents these traits as both a reflection of the character’s caring nature and a source of personal conflict.
Munawar’s comments have prompted discussion among viewers, particularly those interested in the relationship between Abubakar and Zaryab.
Many fans welcomed the confirmation of Abubakar’s feelings and said the actor’s explanation helped them understand the character’s behaviour. Some also called for further insights into the drama’s script and the motivations behind its central characters.
Others disagreed with Munawar’s description of Abubakar as a people-pleaser, suggesting that viewers interpret the character’s decisions differently.
The contrasting reactions highlight how Abubakar’s actions can be understood in more than one way, adding another layer to the discussion surrounding the drama’s romantic and emotional themes.
Munawar has established himself as a prominent figure in Pakistan’s entertainment industry through his work as an actor and producer. His television credits include Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Pehli Si Muhabbat, Sinf-e-Aahan and Kuch Ankahi, among other projects.
His portrayal of Abubakar in Dar-e-Nijat has drawn attention from viewers, with the character’s complicated emotions and relationships becoming a focus of audience discussion.
By explaining the intentions behind his performance, Munawar has offered viewers a closer look at the character’s emotional motivations, particularly the contrast between Abubakar’s affection for Zaryab and his tendency to question his own choices.
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