Hareem Farooq Redefines the Role of Masooma in Bismil: “She’s Not Negative, She’s Real”
Hareem Farooq has taken the TV drama world by storm with her complex portrayal of Masooma in Bismil. While the character is often seen as an antagonist who disrupts the life of Reham, played by Savera Nadeem, Hareem offers a fresh perspective, suggesting that Masooma isn’t inherently a villain but a reflection of the desires and ambitions we all harbor. In a recent appearance on Fuchsia alongside co-stars Saad Qureshi and Savera Nadeem, Hareem shed light on the psychology behind Masooma, her character’s journey, and her own experience playing such a layered role.
Masooma: More Than Just a Villain
Hareem shared insights into the character’s psyche, explaining that Masooma embodies desires common to everyone but is shaped by her own choices. According to Hareem, “Masooma isn’t a negative character; she’s true to herself. We all have a Masooma inside us—a side that holds dreams, ambitions, and desires. It’s up to us how we choose to fulfill those desires.” Hareem’s understanding of Masooma as a character who is more misunderstood than malevolent adds a layer of depth, challenging the audience to look beyond her actions and see the relatable motivations that drive her.
Taking on the Challenge of a New Role
Hareem is no stranger to playing “good girl” roles, and she readily admitted that Masooma offered a much-needed departure from that stereotype. She embraced the role wholeheartedly, despite warnings from colleagues about the backlash a character like Masooma might receive. “People on set would ask if I’d regret taking on such a negative role, but I loved it,” she revealed. “Acting is all about exploring the range of human emotions and personalities, and Masooma allowed me to do just that.”
This risk has paid off for Hareem, who expressed her delight at the overwhelming response she’s received from fans. The love and admiration from audiences, despite Masooma’s controversial actions, have exceeded her expectations and reinforced her commitment to taking on challenging roles.
Why Masooma Resonates With Audiences
Masooma’s journey in Bismil offers an emotional, if at times uncomfortable, portrayal of ambition and desire. Hareem’s nuanced performance invites viewers to question the difference between ambition and greed, loyalty and betrayal. By portraying a character who is unafraid to pursue her goals, even at a cost, Hareem has effectively showcased how complex, multifaceted, and ultimately human Masooma is.