Known for her versatile acting skills, Sarwat Gilani has graced Pakistani screens for almost two decades, working in numerous television plays, web series, and feature films.
Now Gilani has made her recent return to television in the popular drama series “Biriyani,” following a seven-year hiatus.
Recently, she appeared in an interview with Pakistan’s content-creating platform, Something Haute, to discuss her role.
Gilani discussed her role as Gulsher and the process of crafting the character, including her input on the wardrobe and subtle acting choices to portray a layered and mysterious woman.
She highlights the show’s focus on complex social issues like cousin and early marriages, explaining that the creative team prioritized a beautiful narrative over chasing ratings.
Furthermore, Gilani articulates her philosophy on acting versus being an artist who works to inspire and create positive social change, contrasting her work in “Biriyani” and other projects like “Churails” with earlier, less challenging roles.
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She also touches upon her philanthropic work with organizations like the Special Olympics and the importance of time management and being a present mother while balancing a demanding acting career.
“Biryani” holds significant importance in Sarwat Gilani’s career, marking her return to mainstream television after a seven-year gap.
While she continued to work during those seven years on various projects, including Churail, Kaatil, and Joyland, Biryani provided a unique opportunity and context for her return:
Gilani received the offer for Biryani at a crucial time during the summer break, which allowed her to accept the project without feeling overly burdened by her family commitments.
The decision was made easier because she had a positive working relationship with the director, Bader Mahmood, having worked on his first play for Fahad Production. She noted that Mahmood’s call came 11 years after their previous collaboration.
Gilani had spent approximately 20 years of her career often playing the “mazlum sisakti hui aurat” (the oppressed, crying woman). After doing unconventional roles in projects like Churail and Joyland, she felt she would never be able to return to mainstream television.
However, Biryani offered a character, Gul, that allowed her to explore a complex, layered persona.
As a women’s rights activist, Gilani maintains that her projects should deliver a clear message to society, the youth, and girls. Biryani resonated with her because the story outlined had “beautiful messages” and openly discussed social issues such as cousin marriages and early marriages.
Gilani did not intend for the drama to be a “superhit” or garner millions of views; the primary intention was to craft a beautiful narrative and discuss important topics. She was “overwhelmed by the love” and was not expecting the level of success the show achieved.
