Paving her way into the entertainment industry with a few but very strong performances, actress Qudsia Ali is gradually becoming a prominent name with her acting skills and gripping hold on the characters she chooses to play on-screen. She debuted in 2020 from her hit drama serial Aulaad, where she managed to successfully leave a mark with her captivating portrayal of an autistic girl named Mooni. Since then, she hasn’t looked back and continues to courageously pick up the characters that are different and impactful.

She has also graced the silver screen with her debut film which was Nabeel Qureshi's historical drama Khel Khel Mein starring Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas. Some projects that are in her kitty include Dil Awaiz, Mushkil and Betiyaan.

Currently, the actress is garnering all sorts of praises for her amazing and naturally derived performance in the drama Kuch Ankahi, where she plays the character of fearless Taniya.

Qudsia Ali gets candid with MAG, where she talks about her passion for acting, the factors that make her choose a script, breaking the barrier for the next generation of actors and a lot more. Excerpts:

Icebreaker! Tell us something about yourself? How are you as a person when the camera is not rolling?

When the camera is not rolling I am a sweet, talented, independent self-made woman who loves her work and enjoys her life experiences. While on camera, I am what the script requires me to be.

What attracted you to begin a career as an actor?

In my opinion, the sense of appreciation and the love of performance. Living in a fantasy world and living under the skin of different personalities are some things which made me choose my career as an actor.

What do you feel is more important for an actor, talent or training?

A bit of talent and a whole lot of hard work! Also, a lot of patience is REQUIRED.

If anything you would be asked to change about your work, what would be that one thing?

My work is the greatest story ever written for me. Wouldn't change a thing.

Are there things you want to do other than acting?

I already do! I travel and I love it! Also, now that Instagram reels are in trending I love making reels.

Has the journey been fairly easy for you, and if not, what obstacles have you had to overcome?

Nothing was easy. Not a single thing came without a price. The hardest part was conviction. Just retaining the belief was the most important part.

Who do you consider to be your acting role model whose career you would like to emulate, and why?

Ian Joseph, Zendaya, and Emilia Clarke to name a few. These actors have achieved success in their careers through their dedication and commitment to their craft, as well as their ability to bring authenticity and emotion to their performances. They have also made significant contributions to the film and television industries and have served as role models for aspiring actors all over the world.

Which is your favourite role that you have played until now and why?

Mooni in Aulaad was my favourite role because from there I started my journey as an actor and Mooni was really a different person, she was not normal but she was a pure human being and secondly, I enjoyed playing Taniya and Haniya a lot.

How would you describe your acting style?

I believe I have a lot of range. I am looking forward to getting roles that I haven't done in the past. Time will tell if I get the opportunity. I will definitely rock it if I do.

How was your experience of working with Sajal Aly and Bilal Abbas?

My experience of working with them was absolutely amazing! Loads of love and prayers for them. We need more people like them in our industry.

What mainly are the factors you keep in mind while picking up a script?

I think they are that how effortlessly I can do this character and how different it is from my last script and how people will relate to this character.

How was your experience of working on a script by Mohammad Ahmed saab? Do you relate with your character in Kuch Ankahi, and if yes, how?

Yes, it was a blessing to work on Ahmed saab's script. The surprising part was the pure Urdu which was challenging for me but another excitement at the same time. I connect to Taniya somehow because she wants to do what she wants in her life and I am also like her.

Body shaming is a harsh reality of life! Have you ever lost any work opportunities due to these unrealistic beauty standards?

Of course! Not only lost work but never been considered or allowed roles because of it. But my intention is to break that barrier and pave the way for the next generation. That would be my legacy.

Lastly, the entertainment industry is very changing, where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I am lucky to be getting so many opportunities, hopefully, I see myself being humble, healthy, and working hard in the future. Maybe I'll even walk the red carpet as a digital avatar!

• Coordination: Umer Mushtaq
• Hair & Makeup: Nighat Misbah @Depilex
• Wardrobe Flair by Pernia
• Jewellery: Coral by Tina
• Photography: Hussain Piart
• PR by Alchemist