Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, known for his versatile acting skills, has never been one to shy away from voicing his opinions on social media. However, his forthrightness has come at a price. In a recent interview, Zeeshan candidly spoke about facing the repercussions of expressing his political beliefs, which have affected his career in the film industry.
Zeeshan revealed that there was a phase when people were apprehensive about working with him, fearing his outspoken nature. Some thought, “What does he say? What does he do? Let’s stay away from him.” But amidst the uncertainty, there were individuals who saw beyond the noise. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta and industry veteran Sameer Nair were among those who stood by Zeeshan, recognizing his talent and assuring him that his personal opinions would not hinder his professional opportunities.
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Sameer Nair offered Zeeshan a role in “Bloody Brothers,” while Hansal Mehta requested some time to work on a project specifically tailored for him. Eventually, Zeeshan was offered the character of Imran Siddiqui in Mehta’s recently released film, “Scoop.”
Expressing his gratitude, Zeeshan acknowledged the pivotal support he received from Hansal Mehta, Sameer Nair, and casting director Mukesh Chhabra. They helped him navigate the challenging period and secure projects like “Scoop” and another undisclosed venture. Despite a few setbacks with projects falling through due to his political beliefs, Zeeshan’s determination and the support of these industry figures empowered him to persevere.
Zeeshan has always been an advocate for expressing his views and has a background in street plays and activism. He understood that there would be consequences for his outspoken nature, but he refused to compromise his principles and basic humanity for the sake of money or work. He accepted that some individuals would appreciate his talent and dedication, valuing him for his work rather than his political opinions.
Despite the challenges, Zeeshan has had a remarkable year. He has worked on seven projects, a personal record, collaborating with some of the industry’s most respected figures. This surge in opportunities has further strengthened his belief that staying true to oneself and fearlessly expressing opinions can lead to artistic growth and fulfillment.
