Ali Zafar: 'I Don't Believe In Pick-up Lines'

Singer, actor and painter Ali Zafar talks about his love for sports, his first crush and the craziest thing he’s ever done for love.

- Nairita Mukherjee

MY STORY, SO FAR

During my school days in Pakistan, I was known as the artist of the class because I would quietly sit in one corner and sketch. I loved sports too. I played cricket, squash, volleyball, hockey, tennis, basketball, and badminton—basically, everything!

Academically, I have always been above average as my parents were very particular about grades. Eventually, I topped my class in board exams. But there was never any parental pressure to pursue studies. When I was about 16 years old, I participated in a school programme and it was during the practice sessions that I realised that music was my calling.

Being the artistic sorts, I got a lot of attention from women, but it was always awkward, and still is. It took me 18 years to muster up the courage to talk to girls. Even if I went up and said, ‘hey’ to someone, I didn’t know how to carry the conversation forward— I’d fumble and be lost.

I am looking forward to Dear Zindagi (starring Shah Rukh Khan and Alia Bhatt). I’m keen to explore the web series scene, although I don’t have offers yet. Someday I’d like to explore Hollywood and even direct and produce films, but as of now I’m concentrating on my acting career.