“A role’s value isn’t measured in money, but in respect” – Huma Qureshi

Huma Qureshi, who has carved a niche for herself with powerful performances in Bollywood films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Jolly LLB 2, Dedh Ishqiya, Badlapur, Tarla, and the web series Maharani, is currently in the news for the song “Dil Tham Ke” from her upcoming film Maalik. The film, starring Rajkummar Rao and Manushi Chhillar, is set to release in theatres on July 11. The song is already going viral on social media. In a special conversation, Huma opened up about the film, the song, and her experiences.

• What was so special about the song “Dil Tham Ke” that made you excited to be a part of it?

I really liked the song. When it was first played for me at home, I immediately said, “This song is definitely going to be a hit.” Also, all the people working on this film are my friends. I wanted to work with Pulkit (the director of Maalik) anyway — I really liked his film Bhakshak. I always tell him, “Let’s do something big and dramatic,” but I didn’t know we’d end up doing a song together!

• We heard that you didn’t charge any fee for this song—was there a specific reason behind that?

How could I charge my friends? The song only took two days to shoot and I felt it didn’t make sense to take money for it.

• Your on-screen chemistry with Rajkummar Rao in ‘Monica, O My Darling’ was highly appreciated—how was your experience working with him again in Maalik?

He’s a very good friend of mine. He’s like family to me. When he’s working, he’s extremely focused, but when he’s not, he’s full of fun.

• What is the most important thing for you when choosing a script—something you never compromise on?

For me, respect is the most important thing — both from my side and the other side. Even if the role is a cameo done out of friendship. I don’t think much about money. What matters is how I’m treated where I work. If I feel the people aren’t right, I don’t take that role.

• Has staying away from being stereotyped been an artistic responsibility for you?

Yes, absolutely 100% a conscious choice. Girls are always told that they have a shelf life or that they’re only meant for certain roles. People talk a lot of nonsense and give unnecessary advice. They love to show you your place or what you’re “worthy of.” But I’ve always tried to do something different — I can’t do the same thing again and again.

• What was the biggest struggle you faced in the early years of your acting career?

I got some really good advice from Amita Sahgal. She said, “Listen, you seem like a nice girl from a good family. Don’t go down that route—there are very few good film castings. You won’t even realize it, you’ll be wandering around, meeting random people and end up disappointed. Do ads — if you’re good, people will see you on camera.” I don’t know why, but I liked what she said and I focused on advertisements. Because of those ads, I got my first film Gangs of Wasseypur. I’ve met so many people in my life who’ve helped me selflessly.

• You’ve had a long and appreciated journey in the industry—when you look back now, where do you see yourself?

Nowhere. The day I place myself somewhere, everything special in me will end. I always look at myself like a child. I think about what I haven’t done yet. That’s what I want to do. Even the projects coming up are completely different — because my one condition is that I must not repeat what I’ve already done. Maharani received a lot of love, so we might do another season — but I don’t want to repeat anything.

Huma’s Workfront

Talking about her upcoming work, Huma will soon be seen in Jolly LLB 3, featuring Akshay Kumar, Arshad Warsi, Amrita Rao, Saurabh Shukla, and Annu Kapoor. This courtroom drama is set to release on September 19, and will feature an intense legal battle between Akshay and Arshad.

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