In Conversation with Gulshan Majeed
As an actor, dancer, stylist, and choreographer, Gulshan Majeed has made a lasting impression on the local scene while earning international acclaim for his work in films that transcend borders. In a mindful conversation with this rising star, we delve into the interplay of creativity and artistry in Gulshan’s journey.
1. Your profile reflects a diverse range of talents, including acting, dancing, styling, and choreography. Growing up, did you always want to be in the creative field?
Funny that you asked this. Growing up, I wanted to be a doctor. Despite my involvement in performing arts during my school days, I never felt compelled or received guidance to pursue a career in the creative arts. It wasn’t until two years after graduating and entering the professional world that I made the decision to switch careers and fully pursue performing arts.
2. You made a shift from business to entertainment, are you happy with your choice?
At times, I do question my decision because freelancing in the performing arts industry in Pakistan is quite tricky. It’s barely considered a viable career path. However, overall, I am content with my choice. Being able to pursue what you love and having the autonomy to make life choices on your own terms is a blessing that I truly cherish.
3. You were an integral part of ‘Joyland’ which took you to the Cannes Film Festival for its world premiere and was the first Pakistani film to be shortlisted for the Oscars. How was the entire experience?
It was surreal, to say the least. Experiencing our film make history and witnessing how well it was received by the world was incredibly fulfilling. Cannes was very warm, and meeting the members of our international crew at the festival, knowing they shared the same faith and resonance with the film, was very heartwarming. I’m glad I was there to experience it all with the team.
4. While “Joyland” received a lot of appreciation, there was some backlash as well. What were your takeaways from the entire journey?
It takes a village and a half to make a film, but criticizing it from the comfort of your couch takes an instant. Navigating through the controversy surrounding the film has been eye-opening. I’ve come to understand the realities of getting a movie to the cinema and battling the shallow censorship in the country. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to persevere in the pursuit of creating art; allies will follow.
5. Your recent film “Wakhri” also garnered attention at the Saudi film festival. Tell us about this project?
“Wakhri” is my debut feature as an actor so it holds a special place in my heart. Watching it for the first time as part of the Red Sea festival was an amazing experience. We had a great reception, followed by positive press and reviews. Being in the same space as A-listers from around the world, interacting with them, and hearing that my performance resonated with the viewers was the cherry on top.
6. Do you think the landscape of the entertainment industry is evolving?
It surely is. With the world acknowledging and celebrating our content, new avenues are opening up. However, it’s high time to invest in stories that go beyond commercialism and the redundant formula of selling faces instead of content. The scale and quantity of films need to increase to lure audiences to theatres and revive the cinema culture.
7. What are some of the challenges that the entertainment industry still faces?
With the ongoing bans on Bollywood films and changing viewing patterns post-COVID, the film industry is struggling to attract enough audiences to theaters. Investors are primarily focused on profitability, leading many compelling stories to never reach the screen. Breaking into the industry as an outsider is incredibly difficult due to the lack of an agent system to represent new or existing talent, exacerbated by industry politics. Trolling often outweighs championing or support. These are some of the most concerning issues, in my opinion.
8. As someone with such a diverse skill set, how do you stay inspired?
I really enjoy the fact that I dabble in a diverse skill set because it keeps me on the edge. It helps me avoid monotony and find new ways to stay charged. Self-expression is at the core of everything I do, whether it’s acting, dancing, or fashion styling, so inspiration comes from every aspect of life for me. Sometimes it’s a fleeting moment of life happening around me, or a quirky stranger I spot on the street that inspires a vivid fashion image. I’m always drawing inspiration from life at large.
9. Has there been a moment in your career that’s left a lasting impact on you?
There have been a few memorable moments. Witnessing almost nine minutes of standing ovation after the premiere of “Joyland,” seeing one of my students pursue her dream degree because she “found her calling” in my theatre workshops, and traveling to different parts of the world because of my craft – all these moments have greatly impacted me and reaffirmed my faith.
10. Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations with our readers?
I’m performing at the Junction Dubai as part of two theatrical productions. I also have an upcoming cinematic collaboration with a German indie film that I’m really excited about.
11. To you, what does it mean to be ‘Mindful?’
To me, mindfulness means being aware of oneself and acknowledging the necessary work involved in the journey of self-exploration. It also entails being empathetic towards others, understanding their struggles and realities.
Coordinated by: Durrah Aman
