Vaquar Shaikh, known for his roles in popular television shows like "Anupamaa" and "Qubool Hai," believes that acting is fundamentally about storytelling, not merely the portrayal of a role. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Shaikh has consistently emphasized the importance of connecting with the narrative and understanding the character's motivations within the larger context of the story.
Shaikh's journey in the entertainment industry began with TV shows like "Jannat," "V.I.J.A.Y," and "Heena". He later gained wider recognition for his roles in "Qubool Hai," "Woh Rehne Waali Mehlon Ki," and "Anupamaa". More recently, Shaikh has also ventured into the digital space, with roles in web series and films.
In his approach to acting, Shaikh prioritizes understanding the "why" behind a character's actions. For his role as Parvez in "Seher Hone Ko Hai," Shaikh delved deep into the character's psyche, seeking to understand his motivations and the reasons behind his behavior. He emphasized that Parvez isn't simply a villain but a complex character shaped by his upbringing and societal influences. According to Shaikh, Parvez's mindset is a result of his environment, where he grew up believing that his actions were justified and aligned with tradition. Shaikh accepted the role because of its unapologetic writing and the opportunity to portray a character with such stark darkness.
Shaikh has observed that today's generation of actors are well-prepared, intelligent, and mature. He notes that they are comfortable with competition and approach their work with a clear understanding of their goals.
Despite his extensive experience, Shaikh remains grounded and focused on continuous learning. He believes that every role offers an opportunity to learn and grow as an actor. "Experience is something that you cannot see and measure. It's there in you, and it keeps coming. Even today, I am experiencing it," he said.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by seasoned actors, such as limited opportunities for leading roles, Shaikh remains content and optimistic about his career. He is currently exploring theatre and OTT platforms, and believes that his best work is yet to come. He feels age is just a number and if you are mentally and physically fit then you can overcome any challenge.
Shaikh's perspective on acting extends beyond mere role-playing; he views it as a medium for conveying meaningful stories and reflecting societal realities. He says that success to him isn't about being in the limelight and is still relevant and working even after two decades in the industry.
