Inspiration to create Mehwish Hayat, one role at a time

Actress Mehwish Hayat wants to use her career and choice of roles to inspire young women as she highlights the need for more women-centric storylines in Pakistani dramas and films.

Speaking during a recent podcast, the actress reflected on her journey, creative process and aspirations for the future. Hayat said that despite appearing in relatively fewer projects, she believes the quality and substance of her work has secured her place as an unforgettable figure in Pakistani entertainment.

“I usually only work on one project a year, but my one project is really good, which makes people always remember my work,” explained the actress, who is known for her selective approach to acting.

Hayat said she prefers challenging and multi-layered characters that require emotional depth and conviction. “Whenever a difficult role is created in a film or drama, I am the first choice for filmmakers,” she shared, adding that she takes pride in roles that push creative boundaries.

She used the conversation to call for stronger female representation in media, urging writers and producers to create stories that reflect the ambition and resilience of Pakistani women.

“Pakistani media should present stories and characters of women that inspire them to move forward,” she said, suggesting that depictions of women as police officers, doctors or lawyers can motivate audiences to aim higher in real life.

Hayat, who entered the industry more than a decade ago, remarked that the impact of her performances makes her feel like she has been acting for over 20 years.

This perception was credited to its consistency and commitment to deliver quality over quantity. “I’ve been in this field for 12 to 15 years, but people feel that I’m closer because of the impact of my work,” he said.

Looking ahead, the actress expressed optimism about the next chapter of her career, saying she plans to remain active in showbiz for another two decades. She also reiterated her belief that her work should serve a larger purpose beyond entertainment.

“I want the girls I like to be inspired by me. They should see me as an ideal, be motivated and strive for perfection,” she said. Hayat’s remarks align with her continued advocacy for women’s empowerment and her commitment to portraying characters that challenge stereotypes.

Through carefully selected roles, she continues to position herself as both a performer and a role model – a reflection of her desire to fuse artistry with influence in Pakistan’s evolving entertainment landscape.