“I believe in destiny; whatever is written for you will eventually reach you”

For more than three decades, Sabahat Bukhari has remained one of Pakistani television's most dependable and respected performers. From her early days as a PTV announcer in 1989 to becoming a familiar face in countless dramas, her career has been defined not by shortcuts or overnight success, but by discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her craft.

Long before stepping in front of the camera as an actress, Bukhari mastered the art of communication as a presenter, refining her Urdu, diction, and confidence in the rigorous environment of PTV. Those early lessons became the foundation of a career that would span hosting, acting, and memorable performances across multiple generations of Pakistani television.

In this candid conversation with MAG, the veteran actress reflects on breaking societal norms to pursue a career in media, the golden era of PTV, and how the industry has evolved over the past three decades. She explains her love for portraying layered negative characters, and opens up about the need to mentor young talent, revive PTV's creative legacy, and preserve the values of respect, punctuality, and continuous learning that shaped her own journey.

Warm, insightful, and refreshingly honest, Sabahat Bukhari proves that longevity in the entertainment industry isn't built on fame alone – it's earned through humility, perseverance, and an enduring passion for storytelling. Excerpts:

SK: How did your journey with PTV start, and what inspired your transition from news presenting to acting?
SB: Starting as a PTV presenter in 1989 was a bold decision, particularly because I came from a Syed family where women entering the media industry was uncommon. Determined to pursue my passion, I convinced my parents and joined PTV Lahore as an announcer. Since childhood, I had dreamt of performing, often practicing Urdu pronunciation and reading newspapers in front of a mirror. I believe, "if you truly want something in life, you can achieve it with passion, patience, and consistent effort." Working in PTV's disciplined live environment sharpened my confidence, diction, and professionalism. After a stint as a flight attendant with Hajvairy Airlines, Aero Asia, and Bhoja Air, I returned to PTV Karachi, where hosting eventually opened the door to acting through director Haider Imam Rizvi. I worked alongside talented actors like Talat Iqbal and Sanam Iqbal in a sitcom. Looking back, I feel, both presenting and acting had always been part of my dream.

SK: How would you describe your three-decade journey in the entertainment industry?
SB: I consider my career the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. I credit PTV for laying the foundation of my career and regard it as, both an institution and a teacher. My experience at FM 100 further polished my Urdu, diction, expression, and confidence. The compliments I receive today for my language and dialogue delivery are the result of that early training. Reflecting on nearly three decades in the industry, I describe my journey as rewarding, educational, and filled with gratitude.

SK: How has the television industry changed since the golden era of PTV?
SB: I believe the industry has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years. During the PTV era, dramas featured meaningful writing by legends such as Haseena Moin, Noor-ul-Huda Shah, Amjad Islam Amjad, Asghar Nadeem Syed, and Ayub Khawar, while directors invested time in rehearsals, script readings, and character-building sessions that created strong bonds among actors. Today, productions are much faster due to channel demands, often affecting script quality. However, I appreciate the emergence of talented young writers and actors, and I believe mutual respect between senior and junior artists can ensure the industry's continued growth.

SK: What changes have you witnessed in television production?
SB: I acknowledge that technology has significantly improved, with better cameras, lighting, and wireless microphones replacing traditional equipment. However, I feel sound quality still requires attention, particularly during outdoor shoots where external noise becomes an issue. Despite technical progress, I believe production standards and sound design still have room for improvement.

SK: What challenges did you face as a newcomer?
SB: Unlike many aspiring actors, I was fortunate to avoid major struggles. Having entered acting through PTV, I received my first role through a professional offer and found myself surrounded by supportive senior actors who guided me throughout the process. Although every artist requires time to refine their craft, I never felt isolated or overwhelmed, making my early experiences relatively smooth.

SK: How do you prepare for roles, and what makes a character memorable?
SB: I believe every role reaches the actor it is destined for. I accept projects only when I genuinely connect with the character. While I am often cast in negative roles despite my gentle real-life personality, I enjoy them because they offer greater emotional range and creative freedom. Villainous roles allow me to explore emotions and behaviours I would never display personally, whereas positive characters are often more restrained. For me, challenging roles remain the most rewarding.

SK: What does receiving awards and honours mean to you?
SB: Although I have received several honours, including the Supporting Actress Award at the Apna Karachi Awards, Women Achievement Awards, and Binte Hawwa Awards, I believe the greatest recognition comes from audiences rather than trophies. Awards can sometimes be influenced by external factors, but genuine appreciation from viewers is priceless. If people appreciate your performance – even if they criticise your character – that means you have done your job well. Emotional audience reactions are my true reward!

SK: You have also tried your hand at hosting shows. How different was hosting from acting?
SB: Hosting Subah Bakhair Vibe Ke Saath offered a refreshing change during a period when I wanted to devote more time to motherhood. The morning show featured live audience interaction, guest interviews, cooking segments, and music, allowing me to engage directly with viewers. I enjoyed the spontaneity of live television and appreciated the balance it gave me between family life and my career.

SK: How has family life influenced your acting career?
SB: My family has played a vital role in helping me balance motherhood and a demanding career. With strong support at home, I successfully managed, both professional and personal responsibilities, even taking my young child to work when necessary. I believe a supportive family environment is essential for women pursuing careers, as balancing both worlds becomes extremely difficult without understanding and encouragement.

SK: Why do you think Pakistani dramas connect with international audiences?
SB: I believe Pakistani dramas resonate globally because of their strong performances and relatable family-oriented storytelling. Although modern dramas increasingly feature themes like love triangles and divorce, they remain rooted in realistic family narratives rather than exaggerated "saas-bahu" plots. I think viewers, particularly across the Indo-Pak region and among overseas Pakistanis, connect deeply with these stories. With dramas now being dubbed into other languages, I expect our international popularity to continue growing.

SK: Do you think there are enough opportunities for senior actors today?
SB: I believe the rise of OTT platforms and YouTube has created promising opportunities for experienced artists who previously struggled to find work. I also urge the government to establish official acting institutes where veteran actors can mentor newcomers by teaching dialogue delivery, Urdu, performance techniques, and camera skills. While institutions like NAPA are producing talented artists, I believe government-backed initiatives could benefit the industry on a much larger scale.

SK: How important is mentorship for young actors?
SB: I believe mentorship remains invaluable for those willing to learn. While I feel many young artists today lack patience and often believe they already know everything, I encourage aspiring actors to observe and learn from their experienced colleagues. In my view, working alongside seniors provides lessons that no classroom can replicate.

SK: In your opinion, what defines a truly successful artist?
SB: For me, sincerity towards one's craft is the defining quality of a successful actor. I value directors who trust performers and allow them the creative space to fully develop their characters. Above all, I believe the learning process never truly ends. The moment ego takes over [and you think you know everything, you know better], that is precisely where an actor’s downfall begins. Remaining humble and constantly improving is the key to longevity.

SK: Specifically, what has your career taught you?
SB: Respect is the greatest lesson I have learned throughout my journey. I believe respect should be extended equally to seniors and juniors, while knowledge should always be shared generously. I advocate creating a family-like atmosphere on set instead of fostering rivalry or resentment. Punctuality is another value I strongly emphasise, insisting that arriving late should never be considered acceptable. I hope future generations will uphold the same respect for seniors that my own generation practised.

SK: Are there still roles that you wish to play one day?
SB: Despite decades in the industry, I remain eager to explore new characters. I particularly hope to portray a politician or a doctor, believing both roles would present exciting challenges and allow me to showcase different dimensions of my acting abilities.

SK: If you could meet your younger self, what advice would you give?
SB: Interestingly, I would not go back to the past at all. I believe in living in the present and trusting Allah with the future. While I remain grateful to PTV for shaping my career, I hope the institution will revive its studios through renovations and invest in producing quality dramas, game shows, and other original content. Looking back, I have no regrets, believing everything that happened in my life happened for the best – and that the future, Insha'Allah, will be just as rewarding.