Identifying herself as a simple, “girl next door”, Zarnish admits that acting found her by destiny, rather than a conscious choice. In her voice echoes the strength of an independent woman who makes her own decisions in life, unperturbed by any societal pressures. From being the headstrong, wheelchair-bound Donia from Ishq Zahe Naseeb, playing Ushna from Aik Mohabbat Kaafi Hai, the Punjabi Zainab from Laaj, Zarnish has come a full circle in experimenting with roles which proves her mettle as an actress. MAG chats with the rising artist, as she keeps her replies light-hearted yet introspective. Read on…

Who is Zarnish to her friends, fans and family?

Life of the party.

What is that one or several qualities which sets you apart from your contemporaries?

That I’m me... something none of the other could ever be.

At what point in your life, did you decide you want to pursue acting as a career?

I’m not sure if acting is my true calling. Perhaps there’s more that awaits me in the future. However, I do feel acting comes as second nature to me and when I first saw myself on the small screen, I knew I wanted to pursue this.

How important it is to have young celebrity figures like you, to positively influence the youth of the country?

With so much negativity surrounding us every single day, I feel positivity and hope can be the only torches that would keep the youngest generation going. So hundred per cent, it’s so important for our lot of celebrities to fuel in that positivity.

How do you tackle hate speech and online trolling?

I haven’t gone through it yet, may be a few negative comments but I love the fact that my followers are super kind, even if they don’t like something they’re never unreasonable or rude. They address the issues politely. Alhamdulillah

What would you pick as an alternative career for yourself, if given the choice?

My alternative career would be some business for sure because I have a business-oriented mind.

Where do you see yourself 10 years down the line?

I don’t plan the future so let’s see but I’m sure it will be some place nice for sure.

Since actresses are perceived as influencers, do you think that this 'influencer' badge comes with responsibility? To speak, process and do things rightfully, since you may in a way or other would be influencing society.

Being an actor today is very different from what it used to be. If you’re an actress with a following then you’re doing a lot more than acting. There’s a lot of responsibility, accountability and transparency. Your actions and words cannot be mindless anymore. We have to remember we’re talking to young minds – not just girls but also boys. This is why I love opting for challenging roles, ones that don’t necessarily fit the avatar of a stereotypical woman. There always has to be more.

Give is some insight into your role in Yeh Dil Mera?

I’m not going to reveal too much but what I will tell you is that my character is a very strong, independent, opinionated woman. She is the main twist in the plot. You’ll just have to watch the drama to know more.

Rapid, and full of fire!

If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

“Yaaro Sunlo Zara”

If you could bring one fictional character to life, who would it be?

Doctor Strange.

Do you have any useless talent?

Whenever I go for shopping, I buy everything, even the things I don’t need. Is that a talent? [laugh]

Best compliment you have ever received?

That as a kid, I used to look like my mom and now, I look like my dad.

If you could be a child for one day, what would you like to do?

Eat all the junk there is in the world without caring about my weight.

An item you like to collect?

I like collecting cute soaps that come in a variety of packaging.

What can turn a day around you?

Music.

Something you wish you had more time to do?

Sleep.

If you could meet a person for the first time again, who would it be?

My husband.

A beauty product you swear by?

None, I’m just too lazy for that.

Photography: Zeynal Mahmmadli
 Styling: Yegana Gahraman
 Coordination: Umer Mushtaq