by IZMA AZEEM CHUGHTAI
Despite the hurdles, Roy is now set to release her first psychological thriller in which she also essays the lead role
Shyraa Roy also known as Miss Trans Pakistan 2022 is a force to be reckoned with. From her introduction into the entertainment world as a model to her debut as a producer and actor, the starlet has carved a unique path of her own. Roy is now set to release her first psychological thriller, Sanak, in which she also essays the lead role.
Speaking with The Express Tribune, Roy revealed that establishing her acting career in Pakistan as a transwoman was quite difficult, huddled with challenges, threats and trauma.
“For a trans woman, it’s easier to become a model than an actor or producer, especially if she has a feminine figure, however, the film industry is a completely different ballgame. When I started to produce films, I struggled to find sponsors and often relied on my own money. Honestly, it wasn’t an easy job as everyone in the industry is hell-bent on pushing you down,” shared Roy.
She highlighted how with every new step in her career, life became much tougher. “Men couldn’t digest that a woman, a transwoman was trying to become a producer! I still remember standing in queues for hours, with so many rejected presentations; modelling was much simpler as I was only required to pose for the camera.”
The Aks actor also discussed her struggle to get roles in Pakistani films and dramas. She expressed, “When I started my role as a mainstream artist, I always used to be asked about my gender. The casting directors often questioned, ‘Should we give you the role of a man or woman?’ And I answered a woman, of course but unfortunately, they never quite understood this concept.” Roy would then state a rather hard-to-digest but true parallel, “If Sushmita Sen can play a transwoman’s character, then why can’t we play a woman in films?”
Sanak: a psychological thriller
Roy’s latest offering Sanak is much more than just a gripping tale of “obsession and love.” According to her, it’s a unique narrative that is bound to compel anyone to watch the film.
Speaking about the plot, Roy said, “The film is about a fanatic named Zafar Minhas who would do anything to acquire his love’s attention, who is a popular actor called Samaira Khan. Although he’s one amongst millions of fans, what makes him special is his fixation on the star which drives him to do anything to have her, even kill people.”
Directed by Hassan Fareed and written by Indian director Vikram Bhatt, the film aims to make people look beyond the murderer’s gruesome crimes and understand his complex personality instead. Amongst many, Sanak stars Muneeb Ali, Murad Kazmi, Resham, Javed Sheikh and Beenish George in pivotal roles.
The Express Tribune for more