It is widely known that there was a time when Emraan Hashmi was one of the nation’s biggest heartthrobs, and he continues to hold that place through his memorable music and gripping films. His craze wasn’t just limited to India but crossed borders as well and in a throwback interview, Emraan Hashmi spoke about the immense love he received from Pakistani audiences, especially when his films were making a strong impact there.
From Awarapan (2007) to Gangster (2006) and Killer (2006), his films found a dedicated fan base across the border. This conversation took place during the promotions of Jannat (2008), just before its premiere in Pakistan.
Emraan Hashmi On Special Connection With Pakistani Fans
Talking about his visit he acknowledged how well his films performed there and how the audience connected with his work, Emraan shared, “Yes, Pakistan ja rahe hai. Picture ko premiere karne wale hai waha pe, media se interact karenge. Halaanki first Indian picture to release there was my film Awarapan, uske baad meri do filmein release hui hai Gangster aur Killer. Sabhi ne bahut acha business kiya hai waha pe.”
“Bahut Pyaar Mila Hai Mujhe”
Opening up about the response he received, Emraan Hashmi expressed genuine gratitude and excitement, “It was very encouraging kyuki Pakistani audience se itna pyaar mila hai mujhe lekin kabhi gaya nahi hu. Bahut saare mauke mile the, shooting me busy tha, now I’m very excited kyuki yeh mera pehla trip hai Pakistan ja raha hu, feedback milega, audience ke saath picture dekunga waha, so it’s going to be fun.”
This was going to be his first visit to Pakistan, and he was looking forward to experiencing the audience reaction firsthand.
On Pakistani Audience Mindset And Film Choices
When asked whether his bold film themes would be accepted there, he responded with clarity, “Well, aisa nahi hai. Shaant yaane, dekhte hai Hindi filmein aur meri filmein bhi dekhi hai unhone toh aisa koi shock nahi hoga unko film dekhke. Unhone meri picturon ko pasand kiya hai aur ek feedback hamesha mila hai. Maine hamesha waha ke media se baat ki hai, hamesha bahut positive response mila hai, they are very broad minded in their thinking… jis kisam ki filmein dekhte hai waha pe, and I’m looking forward to enjoy and watch the film with them.”
He highlighted that the audience was aware and open-minded, and there was no cultural barrier when it came to cinema.
Music That Crossed Borders
During the same interaction, he also spoke about the film’s music. Talking about the song Judai, which was composed and sung by a Pakistani musician Kamran Ahmed, adding a Sufi touch to the soundtrack. This collaboration further strengthened the cultural connection between the film and its audience.
Looking back, this interview shows how cinema easily crosses borders when the connection is real. Emraan Hashmi’s popularity in Pakistan wasn’t just about films – it was about music, emotions and relatability. And clearly, the love he received there left a lasting impact on him.
To catch the full throwback interview and hear him speak in detail.. more about the film, working with Sonal Chauhan and movie’s dark theme, watch the complete video below.
Directed by Kunal Deshmukh, Jannat was released on May 16, 2008. The film explored the darker side of cricket betting while also carrying a romantic storyline between Emraan Hashmi and debutant Sonal Chauhan. The film received positive responses and its music including Zara Sa, Haan Tu Hain and more remains popular even today!
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