In a recent interview, actor Yasir Hussain discussed a variety of subjects, including the cultural relevance of item songs in Pakistani cinema and the difficulties of comedy in the age of political correctness. Along with his opinions on parenting, he also spoke about his 14-year age difference with his wife, the well-known performer Iqra Aziz.
In a podcast interview with the broadcaster Irza Khan, Yasir introduced the topic by describing the cultural significance of item songs in Pakistan’s film industry. He emphasized that item numbers are a staple of the entertainment business and have a long history in Pakistani cinema. Furthermore, he stressed that these songs have always been a part of Pakistani culture and are not a recent development.
‘Item song’ controversy
“People claim that item numbers in movies are not part of our culture. But this is the way we are. There are several songs by Madam Noor Jehan that feature incredible dance routines. Likewise for creatives. Culture is what it is. These tunes have been released ever since Pakistan’s founding. Actually, since before that,” said Yasir.
He also stated his support for giving brilliant female dancers from the past the chance to perform in movies and award ceremonies. “Nargis, Deedar is there. They should be employed for movies and award ceremonies. They ought to be present whenever I host or watch an award presentation, in my opinion. Both Resham and Reema ought to be present. Because of the cool/uncool dichotomy in our profession, many of our artists, like Naseebo Lal jee, don’t receive the credit they merit. the manner in which India profited from someone like Arif Lohar. We ought to take note of that.
Age gap in relationships
When the host brought up the 14-year age difference between Yasir Hussain and his wife, Iqra Aziz, who is 25 years old, the conversation took a personal turn. The answer from Yasir made clear that such age differences are normal in the entertainment industry and can be beneficial to a partnership.
“The age difference between Iqra and I only attracted attention when I brought it up in conversation. However, in our sector, the age disparity between every pair is typically similar. I think that’s positive. This distinction need to exist, Yasir said. Iqra is mature for her age, he said, but compatibility can still exist even when one spouse is not as mature as the other. “Iqra is really mature for her age. But in the case that one is not as mature and the other is, the partnership is more compatible.”
Yasir also discussed how getting married changed his life. He remarked that since all of his siblings had married, he was used to living alone. However, their families became more unified after his marriage to Iqra. He explained how the addition of Iqra’s mother and sister had made their home livelier and more sociable.
On fatherhood and values
The topic of fatherhood came up, and the host questioned Yasir about his goals as a parent. Yasir emphasized his wish to teach his children particular morals and to guide them. He emphasized that fundamental life principles are frequently not taught in schools, and he hopes to fill this gap by being a friend and mentor to his child.
“I just want to instill certain values and teach certain things and allow my child to grow in whatever direction he is naturally inclined to,” Yasir said. Instead of pushing his own ideas on his child, he takes the approach of letting them grow into their own personalities.
Comedy in the age of political correctness
As the host and Yasir discussed the difficulties encountered by comedians in the age of political correctness and cancel culture, the conversation took an interesting turn. Yasir discussed how the world of humor is evolving and how people are getting more sensitive to jokes that they previously may not have found offensive. “Previously, people wouldn’t have taken offense at jokes, but now they do. Perhaps they have a right to be offended,” Yasir said. He also used fellow comic Nadir Ali as an example, who has received criticism for his inquiries in recent podcasts.
“They discuss Nadir Ali. Nadir, meanwhile, has spent his entire life serving the masses. I’ll talk about him because he recently received some terrible trolling. Yasir said, “Don’t our puppies [aunts] ask awkward questions,” when the presenter interjected, “Nadir asks very awkward questions.” Irza responded by asking, “So, do we start considering Nadir a phuppo?” Yasir replied, “Sure, why not?” He said, “Don’t go to his shows if you know a person would ask questions that will make you uncomfortable. He won’t quit poking uncomfortable questions. Avoid educating him. He has a following that respects him for what he does.
Yasir emphasized that the correct audience might find humor amusing even when it deals with delicate subjects. He cited the late comedian Umer Sharif as an example, who delivered jokes that today may be viewed as sexist and racist but yet managed to make his audience laugh. “You research Bakra Qiston.” Pay now and hear [late comic] Umer Sharif discusses politics, women, the planet, and its people. You will giggle at how sexist and racist they are. You’ll also see that others who purchased tickets to see him in person are also laughing. All of the jokes in a typical white man’s stand-up comedy are about sex, politics, and religion. And they’re all sexist. You are not allowed to make any of those jokes here. I don’t advocate being sexist or racist. Just letting you know that I’m sure Tabish [Hashmi] finds it very challenging to handle the show here. There are theaters all throughout the world that encourage these enlightened discussions. They are PG-rated and warn you that it will be noisy, vulgar, or some other characteristic in order to screen the audience.
Yasir even advocated for the inclusion of mujras and dances in the entertainment sector at the end of the conversation, acknowledging the value of permitting varied types of entertainment as long as they are available and profitable. Why not? There should be mujras and dances. Anyone who wants to watch is free to do so; those who don’t should not have to. They continue to take place, but underground and exposed to raids. Isn’t it preferable that these entertainment options are made profitable? Rauf Lala won’t comprehend if you ask him to refrain from making a joke today because it is sexist. He’s been doing this all of his life. How do you intend to alter Amanullah Sahab? It serves the same purpose as advising your granny not to invade your privacy. They lack basic understanding of personal space.
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