Karachi: In the history of Pakistani drama, Hina Dilpazeer’s Momo from the popular sitcom Bulbulay is undoubtedly the most adored and enduring figure in the hearts and minds of viewers. The old Momo’s endearing exaggerated reactions, characterized by her signature “oof” and her famous facepalm, are sure to make anyone laugh.
Though Hina portrays a devoted mother in the program, many people are unaware that she is younger than actor Nabeel Zafar, who played her son Nabeel. During a recent interview with the FHM Pakistan podcast, actor and producer Nabeel disclosed that Hina accepted the part despite the age difference.
Nabeel said, “I guess Hina first appears in the show on the seventeenth episode.” According to the actor, Hina and he had previously collaborated on the 2006 telefilm Burns Road Ki Neelofar, so he had some concept of how she could bring personality and vitality to the part ultimately created for herself.
“I said to Hina, ‘You may be two or four years younger than me, but you’ll have to play my mother!'” Nabeel continued, laughing at the recollection of the phone conversation that resulted in Hina’s casting in Bulbulay.
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On the other hand, Hina accepted the role without hesitation. “She just laughed and said she would do it!” Nabeel told him. As one of the most adored and recognizable characters on Pakistani television, Hina’s portrayal of Momo has gained a loyal fan base over the years. The role of Momo is a crucial component of Bulbulay’s popularity because of the actor’s charming antics and humorous timing, which have won over fans of all demographics.
Hina, however, disclosed earlier this year that she is contractually obligated to play her cherished role as Momo in any other capacity, whether on- or off-screen, even at events or award shows.
She said, “I have it in writing that I cannot do this character (Momo) anywhere else. Yes, I did a commercial where I asked for permission to play Momo, and they said yes, but it was just a commercial.”
The regular cast of Bulbulay consists of Nabeel, Ayesha Omar, and Mehmood Aslam along with Hina. Since its 2009 debut, the sitcom has become a popular small-screen option and holds the record for being Pakistan’s longest-running television program.