One of Pakistan’s most celebrated television actors has directly addressed the storm of criticism surrounding his recent film project, telling audiences that negative reactions are simply part of the filmmaking journey.
Faysal Quraishi, speaking at the World Culture Festival where his film ‘Mango Jutt’ was screened, acknowledged that the project had divided opinion both in cinemas and across social media platforms. The actor-turned-filmmaker said he welcomed all feedback, whether positive or negative, as an inevitable aspect of creative work.
“Not every film is going to be liked by everyone,” Quraishi explained when questioned about the online backlash. He drew comparisons to internationally acclaimed films, noting that even prestigious productions like ‘The Odyssey’ leave some viewers confused or disappointed. “So our film can also have shortcomings. There is nothing unusual about someone not liking it.”
The controversy erupted after ‘Mango Jutt’ was released to mixed reviews, with social media users expressing strong opinions about the film’s content and execution. While some viewers praised the project, others criticized various aspects of the production, sparking heated online debates.
Quraishi, who has appeared in over 200 television projects and won more than 20 national awards throughout his career, emphasized that film festivals serve a purpose beyond simple entertainment. He described them as vital spaces where filmmakers exchange ideas, learn from one another, and inspire the next generation of Pakistani storytellers.
“These festivals also inspire young people,” he said. “If they want to pursue filmmaking, they get to see different pathways and understand how they can move forward and create better work.”
Addressing speculation about a specific video response he had posted online, the actor clarified that his comments were not aimed at any individual critic. Instead, he was responding to a particular message that had reached him privately.
The veteran performer, who first gained recognition in the 1999 television series ‘Boota from Toba Tek Singh,’ has successfully transitioned from acting to production. He established Connect Studios in 2017 and later founded Faysal Quraishi Films, positioning himself as both a creative force and business entrepreneur in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
Quraishi acknowledged that social media has fundamentally changed how audiences engage with films and their creators. “Social media has given everyone a platform to express their opinions, and I am open to both appreciation and criticism,” he stated. “Some people praised the film, while others did not like it. That’s fine. It is good that people are sharing their feedback.”
The actor’s measured response reflects a growing maturity in Pakistan’s film industry, where creators are learning to navigate the intense scrutiny that comes with social media visibility. Rather than dismissing critics or engaging in confrontation, Quraishi’s approach suggests an acceptance of diverse audience reactions as part of the modern filmmaking landscape.
As Pakistan’s entertainment industry continues to evolve and expand beyond television into cinema, the ‘Mango Jutt’ controversy highlights the challenges facing local filmmakers attempting to balance artistic vision with audience expectations in an increasingly vocal digital age.
