In recent years, the entertainment industry has witnessed a growing trend of cross-border collaborations, particularly incinema. Pakistani actors, renowned for their talent and versatility, have increasingly ventured into Indian Punjabi films, enriching the cinematic landscape with their presence. From delivering memorable performances to adding cultural diversity, these actors have made significant contributions to the flourishing Punjabi film industry.
Let’s explore seven Pakistani actors who have and are about to venture into making their debut in Indian-Punjabi films.
Kinza Hashmi
Kinza Hashmi is all set to make her Indian-Punjabi film debut with ‘Hall Ki Ae’. Kinza will be co-starring with Indian actor-singer Jassie Gill. The film is set to release in November 2024.The film is set in the backdrop of Punjab and will be a romantic comedy. While the film’s story is still under wraps, it is anticipated to revolve around the complexities of love on both sides of the border. We anticipate to see Kinza making her cinematic debut.
Imran Abbas
Imran Abbas left his fans impressed after he took on the lead role in the highly anticipated Indian-Punjabi film ‘Jee Ve Sohneya Jee’. Paired opposite Simi Chahal, Imran essays a spirited Pakistani character, promising a captivating blend of romance, comedy, and universal themes. Directed by Thaparr, the film explores the blossoming romance between an Indian girl and a Pakistani boy, with Imran’s remarkable performance at the forefront. Singer Atif Aslam also lent his soulful voice to the film, which adds to the charm of this cross-border collaboration, delivering a heartening message of unity amidst tensions.
Feroze Khan
Feroze Khan is coming together with Indian actress and model Geethika Tiwari for an upcoming feature film titled ‘Luck Lag Gayi’, which is directed by Zulfiqar Ali. The plot of the film is still under wraps, but we are excited to his Feroze’s debut in an Indian-Punjabi film.
Sohail Ahmed
Sohail Ahmed, the acclaimed comedian, ventures into Punjabi cinema with his debut in ‘Babe Bhangra Paunde Ne’ alongside Diljit Dosanjh and Sargun Mehta. In the film, Sohail takes on the role of Dosanjh’s adoptive father, infusing the narrative with his trademark humor.
Directed by Amarjit Singh Saron and produced by Hammad Chaudhry, the film follows Dosanjh’s unconventional scheme to secure an insurance policy, with Ahmed’s character unexpectedly flourishing under their care. The trailer shows Dosanjh, and his friends struggle to keep Sohail Ahmed’s character alive for the duration of the policy, only to witness his health miraculously improve, much to their chagrin. ‘Babe Bhangra Paunde Ne’ is a delightful blend of comedy and heartwarming moments, marking Sohail Ahmed’s impressive debut in the Punjabi film industry.
Nasir Chinyoti
Nasir Chinyoti, a renowned actor and comedian has acted with many well-known Punjabi stage comedians including Babu Baral and Sohail Ahmad. He has starred in several Indian-Punjabi films including the famous film ‘Chal Mera Putt’ as well as its sequels, in which he played the character of Tabrez. Apart from this, he has also starred in Smeep Kang’s comedy film ‘Carry on Jatta 3’.
Iftikhar Thakur
Iftikhar Thakur gained popularity for his roles in Punjabi dramas and also gained popularity for his character of Mian Afzal Nirgoli in ‘Mazaak Raat’. He has stared in different Indian-Pakistani films including ‘Chal Mera Putt 2’ and ‘Chal Mera Putt 3’. Apart from this, he has also starred in in the film ‘Sidhusof Southall’, which has been directed by Navaniat Singh.
Naseem Vicky
Naseem Vicky, a celebrated Pakistani theater, television, and film actor, he has made his presence felt at various fronts. Known for his stand-up comedy, Naseem has worked in Indian-Punjabi comedy film,’ Maa Da Ladla’ where he played the role of Bagga.
The film marked his debut into Indian-Punjabi films. The film centered around Sehaj, a single mother, notices her son’s desire for a father figure, she decides to hire Gora, an aspiring actor, to play the role of a father. Naseem later went to star in Maneesh Bhatt’s film ‘Phatte Dinde Chakk Punjabi’.
It is always refreshing to see cross-border collaboration and see our local stars getting recognition on international platforms.
