Saqib Saleem and his sister and well-known actress Huma Qureshi turned producers with the recently-released Single Salma, which starred the latter in the titular role. Saqib got talking about the film, its result and more in an interview with us.
Saqib Saleem on turning producer with sister Huma Qureshi through Single Salma, “Huma doesn’t allow mediocrity. She pushes me, questions me and keeps me honest”
What prompted you to make Single Salma, a film about a 35-plus Muslim woman who learns to love herself?
Because we hardly ever tell stories about women like Salma. I’ve grown up around women who are strong, funny, emotional, and unapologetically real. And I’ve seen how, after a certain age, society starts treating them like their story is over. It’s strange how marriage has somehow become synonymous with a woman’s identity, as if she was born only to get married. That idea has always bothered me. Single Salma is my way of saying that a woman’s life doesn’t begin or end with marriage. It’s about discovering yourself when the world has already decided who you should be. And honestly, I feel life actually starts at 35. That’s when you know who you are, what you want, and what you’re not willing to settle for.
Is it an asset as a producer to have such a talented actress as your sister?
It’s the biggest blessing and the biggest challenge. Huma doesn’t allow mediocrity. She pushes me, questions me, and keeps me honest. As her producer, I know she’ll always elevate the material. As her brother, I just feel proud that we get to create together.
Was Huma your first and only choice to play Salma?
Absolutely. I knew she’d bring heart and nuance to Salma. The film needed someone who could make silence speak, who could make strength look gentle. Huma has that rare quality where you feel her even when she’s not saying anything.
Are you disappointed by the film’s poor showcasing?
Of course, it stings. You work for months, sometimes years, and then your film fights for screens and show timings. But I’ve learned to separate effort from outcome. The people who’ve watched Single Salma have connected deeply, and that’s priceless. You can’t fake that kind of love.
How challenging is the struggle for small female led films to survive?
It’s a fight every time. But slowly, the audience is evolving. People want honesty, not formulas. Theatres will catch up eventually. For now, you just have to keep creating and keep believing. If it’s made with truth, it’ll find its audience sooner or later.
How do you see your journey as an actor so far?
It’s been a mix of excitement, rejection, growth, and gratitude. I’ve learned that you can’t control perception, only preparation. Every film has taught me something new about myself. I’m still hungry, still curious, and that’s what keeps me going.
Do you feel you are getting the roles that you want?
Not always. But that’s okay. I don’t want everything to come easy. I want to earn it. I’d rather do one meaningful role a year than five forgettable ones.
How tough is it to keep your head above the water in an industry swamped by groupism and nepotism?
It’s tough, but I’ve realised you can’t play victim and hero in the same story. You pick one. I choose to be the hero of mine. The industry can be cliquish, but talent and persistence eventually break through. You just have to keep showing up with faith, humour, and a little madness.
More Pages: Single Salma Box Office Collection , Single Salma Movie Review
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