Exclusive | Iqbal Khan on Yaadein: ‘Very different from what I’ve done in two decades’

Iqbal Khan

Iqbal Khan is stepping into a refreshing new phase of his career with the show Yaadein. In an exclusive chat, the actor spoke candidly about the project, his approach to work, and how the television landscape has evolved over the years.

Iqbal Khan calls the show different from his previous work

Calling the show a departure from his past work, Iqbal said, "Very different from what I have done on TV in the last two decades. Very, very different. Really cool." He added that the excitement around the project is shared by the entire team. "Everything that is related to the show, concept, actors, direction, writers everybody is really kicked about it. Everybody wants to do it on a real scale, but at the same time keeping in mind our audience."

Opening up about the story, he described it as layered and deeply human. "Life is a larger spectrum. Love can be a major part of it, but when it comes to life, a lot of things come in the same bracket," he said. He further reflected on the theme of second chances, adding, "So it's a second chance in life. I believe as humans, our main motive of existence is second chance. First is when we live normally, and second is when we get the second chance to correct things and unlearn."

Highlighting the uniqueness of his character, Iqbal explained, "This is slightly special… although it's a real-life story, where this character actually comes back to life and has forgotten eight years of his life. How he used to be earlier, how he is now, and how those eight years were, it's about how he picks up from there to change as a human being."

On shift in TV to OTT

Talking about his philosophy towards work, the actor remained grounded. "Of course I think positive that it's going to do well, but that's not in my hand. What is in my hand is to be honest about my work, to be on time, to do my job properly, to give my best," he said. He added, "You just have today. You have to give your best for today… and pick up the best moments of your life in each day."

Reflecting on the evolution of entertainment, Iqbal noted, "Earlier people used to have only cinemas… then TV came… Doordarshan, cable, multiplexes. TV was a major entertainment." Comparing it to today, he said, "Now people have access to OTTs, apps, internet, Instagram, Reels, it's only increased. There's a certain kind of segregation that has happened."

Despite the changes, he remains grateful. "Whatever shows that I've done… I've always got to do good stuff. I'm really grateful to the Almighty," he concluded.