A talented actress, model, and sister to Sajal Aly, Saboor Aly is the embodiment of "having it all". But this A-List beauty is refreshingly down-to-earth. Her enthusiasm is genuine and her success is earned. Whenever you meet her, she is beaming with energy, radiating positive vibes. Cutting the figure of a Disney princess, she is not just a regular face you come across every day. The twinkle-eyed beauty radiates the innocence of a child and dreams of making it big in the entertainment industry. From her breakthrough performance in Mehmoodabad Ki Malkain to her praise-worthy role as Dua in Naqab Zan, Aly has always captivated audiences with her talent, warmth and natural beauty. She has made you cry with her good girl roles and made you hate her in her spoilt brat avatar — but time and again she has proven her mettle with gripping performances that made her a face that frequents our screens. In 2016, she made her film debut with Nabeel Qureshi's socio-comedy film Actor in Law, starring prominent actors like Fahad Mustafa, Mehwish Hayat and Om Puri. In this candid tête-à-tête with MAG, the charming starlet takes us on her journey, stardom and everything in between. Join us…

How has the acting and the industry shaped you as a person?

I think our industry is an institute; no matter where you start from, you grow as a person. It shaped me in many aspects; as a person, as a daughter, and even as a human being.

A character you played that resonated most with you?

When I perform a character, I completely immerse myself in the role, and I’ve found that I can resonate with some part or another of all the characters I play. Though if I had to pick one, I’d say Rimsha from Mehmoodabad ki Malkain.

Do you watch your shows? If yes, how do you view them?

I don’t get to watch my shows that often, and it is kind of weird watching yourself on screen. Though there are some shows that I wait for, and if I watch them, I find myself scrutinising my performance.

What is it about acting that you love so much?

I love everything about it. Playing a different person each time, getting to explore new characters and personalities, it’s all very fascinating. What pulls me to acting is that it is a way to explore life and human emotion. I love observing behaviour and using it in my characters. I particularly love character development, from image to physicality, with attention to detail in the process.

Who is a constant inspiration for you within the industry?

My sister, Sajal. She is not just my sister, but my friend, mentor, my inspiration and my conscience. Even today, if I have to share anything, she would be the first person I would call.

What else are you passionate about other than acting?

Cooking. I love that cooking gives me a chance to be creative and indulge in some ‘play’ time – something we adults could do with a lot more. I adore losing myself in the rituals of chopping, stirring and tasting. Spending 30 minutes in the kitchen preparing dinner will put me in a much calmer, less frazzled mood than sitting on the couch for the same amount of time.

How do you feel about modeling and ramp?

I like modeling, but acting has always been my first love. I only opt for modeling when an excellent opportunity shows up.

What is the message you want to send across to your audience with your dramas and your social media interaction with your fans?

Life is precious and beautiful, and we should cherish all the small moments of happiness that come along the way. Understand that nothing in life is ever permanent. Truly realise how fortunate you are to be alive and healthy, a gift denied to many.

A quality about yourself that you love?

How I am a straightforward and simple girl.

Given a chance to write your own script, which subject would you choose and why?

Something about depression and mental illness, because I think it is high time we raise awareness about it. Over the years portrayals of mental health problems have not always been fair and accurate. It has misled viewers and reinforced myths about mental health problems. I want to change that and portray mental illness in its truest form.

What are some draconian practices in showbiz that it needs to evolve from?

I think one thing people need to learn in the industry is to start minding their own business and stop judging people for what they are doing.

Walk us through your process of choosing a script.

After I read it myself, I also read it to my mother and sister to see what their reaction is before I sign a show.

Actors live a somewhat public life, and the age of social media has amplified your interactions and role as a public figure, does it get tiresome? Do you ever wish to disconnect with work and just be you?

Being in this line of work always comes with having to share some part of your life publically. But, I think you just need to find the perfect balance to save yourself from the repercussions that might come with it. As for myself, I am on social media as I am in real life; I don’t like being pretentious.

What’s on top of your bucket list?

A world tour!