By Subhash K. Jha
Mumbai, Sep 18 (IANS): Fawad Khan, one of the most popular actors in Pakistan, says the film industry in his homeland has evolved since the release of his debut film "Khuda Kay Liye" in 2007. Things are looking up now.

The actor forayed into movies at a time when Pakistan's film industry was in absolute doldrums.

"When I did 'Khuda Kay Liye', it was one of the few films being made in the country. The fact that it went on to earn itself so much recognition across the world was totally unforeseen,” said the actor.

“It is only now that the Pakistani film industry is on a revival course. There is some quality work happening and I am glad to be part of it," he added.

It was the very evolved television industry in Pakistan, which helped him make up his mind about acting career.

"I got some wonderful opportunities on television and they helped me discover the actor within me. It was because I did television that I knew I wanted to be an actor.

“Even Shoaib Mansoor with whom I made my movie debut in 'Khuda Kay Liye' has his roots in television. And it shows in his writing," said Fawad.

The star of hit TV shows like “Zindagi Gulzar Hai” makes his Bollywood debut alongside the very spirited Sonam Kapoor in "Khoobsurat", coming out Friday.

And he looks forward to a career in Bollywood, but admits he is new to the entire concept of promoting a film.

"In Pakistan promoting films is yet to become a trend. I would shoot a film and be done with it. It's only now after doing 'Khoobsurat' in India that I realise how important the promotion of a film is. And I'm trying to get a grip on the whole process. Film promotion is an entirely new science for me," he said.

So is he planning to balance out a career in Pakistan and India?

"I was never much of a planner. So, I really can't say what the future holds for me. Yes, I do hope to do other Bollywood films after 'Khoobsurat'," said Fawad who has been a singer and actor for about 14 years.

"Yes! It has been that long. I was just a youngster in college trying to escape the drudgery of studies when I drifted into music and acting. At that time I wasn't sure I was interested in acting. I was only sure that I was disinterested in studies,” he said.