"An actor has no borders" - Muammar Rana

Young, charming and instantly likeable, Muammar Rana is Pakistan's export into Bollywood. This Pakistani star with several hits to his credit is upbeat about starring in the Bollywood project, Dobara.

IndiaFM talks to a visibly excited Muammar who pitches in with an interesting special appearance in this Shashi Ranjan film. He shares screen space with the talented Mahima Chaudhary.

How does it feel to be a part of an Indian project?
Feels fabulous. I have grown up on Amitabh Bachchan films. So to be sharing the same screen, working in the same cinema that he has, feels wonderful. Also, it gives me a definite high that I happen to be the first artist to make the Indo-Pak crossover. An actor has no borders.

How did you land this role?
I met Shashi at the Indo-Pak match. He asked me if I would like to work in his film. The role was earlier offered to Sanjay Dutt. So I was pretty sure that it had to be a good one. Shashi then narrated the script. Once I heard the song Humnasheen, I was ready to sign the movie!

What is your character in the film?
I have a special appearance in the film. And it happens to be the most interesting angle to the plot. I have worked very hard on the film. You'll like me.

How was it to work with Shashi & the Dobara cast?
Wonderful. Unfortunately, I didn't have any scenes with Jackie or Raveena. But yes, I did work with Mahima. She is a good actress and very co-operative. I also did work with Alisha Chinoy in the club song. She is sweet, cute and humble. As for Shashi, he is an excellent director. Dobara looks a seasonal product, not a film from a first-timer.

What according to you is ailing the Pakistani film industry?
Inspite of great talent, we don't have the technical advance. Also the kind of money that is poured into the industry is miniscule compared to Bollywood.

A bollywood actress that you did like to work opposite
Given a chance, Madhubala. Since that is not possible, Madhuri Dixit for sure.

Your reaction to films like Main Hoon Na that endorse Indo-Pak ties?
I loved Main Hoon Na. Not just because of the Indo-Pak track, but because of Sushmita Sen too. On a serious note, I think it's wonderful that films like these are made. The film promotes Indo-Pak tie and it's reassuring to know that we are friends.

Any difference that you see between the two industries
Like I mentioned earlier, the infrastructure and finance. You guys make films on a 25-40 crores budget while in Pakistan, our big budget movie is around 4 crores.

If you were to make an Indo-Pak venture, tell us 2 Bollywood & Pak actors you would pick?
Shahrukh Khan and Salman Khan from Bollywood. From Pakistan I would cast Shaan and myself.

Will we be seeing you in any other project?
I have a couple of projects lined up. Inshallah, things are beginning to look up.