Having won the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement, Zaira Wasim is a humble 17 year old girl who has won the hearts of the audience with her exceptional performance. After essaying the role of a wrestling champion, Zaira left the audience teary-eyed with her role as Insiya in the movie Secret Superstar. We caught up for a quick chat, with this child prodigy, prior to World Television Premiere of Secret Superstar on Zee Cinema – Home of Blockbusters on Sunday, 25th February 2018 at 8pm
How did you feel when you were offered the role of Insiya?
Playing Insiya was a challenge for me. I wasn’t connected to the character personally as I didn’t have a readymade situation to draw inspiration from. Insiya’s life was very restricted while in personal life I’ve always had the liberty to make my own decisions. Having said that, being an actor challenges you to go out of your comfort zone and I thoroughly enjoyed the process of playing this character.
What were the thoughts the came to your mind while performing the role?
I need to be convinced when I take up a role. So, I would say it was my conviction that helped me perform the role.
How was your experience acting opposite Aamir Khan and Meher Vij?
I am no one to comment anything on their work. They are such versatile actors, all of them have put in so much love and it shows in the movie.
Are there any dreams you wish to accomplish?
The response that we got for the movie made me realize the responsibility we have as an artist towards the society. We should make sure our movies don’t send out negative messages because it will have a direct impact on them.
Your message for young Insiya’s out there?
I would like to convey the message to those who stop people like Insiya to watch Secret Superstar on Zee Cinema (laughs)
How similar or different are you in personal life in comparison to Insiya?
I have been blessed with a lovely supportive family so I never really had to face a situation like Insiya and I would want no one else to be in a similar situation as well.
Who was your biggest support in your journey to be an actor?
There a lot of people to thank. Starting from my mother, to grandmother, Aamir Sir, Advait sir and many others. It would be unfair for me to name one person.
Your message to the audience?
Secret Superstar in our real life are our mothers. We never really appreciate the true sacrifice that she makes for her child. I hope the audience takes this one big message home when they watch the movie on Zee Cinema on February 25
Watch the inspiring story of a young Muslim girl, based in Gujarat who becomes a famous singer despite being restricted by her conservative father. Tune-in to Zee Cinema on Sunday, 25th February at 8pm to watch Secret Superstar
