Veteran Pakistani actor Abu Rohan, best known for playing the iconic Nikah Khuwan in television dramas, has finally shared the story behind one of the industry's most recognisable roles
The senior actor recently shared how a simple appearance on a morning show changed the course of his career and led him to become one of television's most familiar character actors.
Speaking in a recent interview with BBC Urdu, Abu Rohan reflected on his acting journey and revealed that he never planned to enter showbiz. He explained that his television career began unexpectedly after he was invited to appear on a morning show as a jeweller.
Recalling the early days of his career, Abu Rohan said that around 35 to 38 years ago, a television channel invited him to appear on a newly launched morning programme, where he displayed jewellery, answered viewers' live calls, and shared information about gold and jewellery.
The veteran actor said his regular appearances on camera caught the attention of drama producers and directors, who noticed how naturally he handled the camera. That unexpected opportunity eventually opened the doors to the television industry and marked the beginning of his acting career.
Abu Rohan revealed that he has now spent nearly 28 years working in Pakistani dramas and has performed the role of a Nikah Khuwan in more than 80 productions. Before joining Pakistan's television industry, he had also lived in Bahrain for almost eight years, where he gained valuable experience performing in stage productions. According to him, those years helped him become comfortable in front of the camera.
Although viewers mostly recognise him as the familiar Nikah Khuwan in television dramas, Abu Rohan said the role is not always as simple as it appears. He explained that many Nikah scenes involve emotional or dramatic moments that require proper acting and natural expressions. He added that directors have also cast him in several roles beyond the well-known Nikah Khuwan character.
The veteran actor also shared a memorable incident from his personal life. He recalled being approached by a woman at an airport who immediately recognised him as the Maulvi Sahib from television dramas. She requested that he officiate her child's real-life Nikah.
However, Abu Rohan politely declined the request, explaining that Nikah is a religious responsibility and should be performed by a qualified religious scholar. He added that, out of respect and affection, he is always happy to offer prayers and blessings for newly married couples after the ceremony.
Today, Abu Rohan remains one of Pakistan's most recognisable character actors, known for his signature cap, beard and waistcoat. His journey from jeweller to becoming television's favourite Nikah Khuwan has fascinated fans, offering a rare glimpse into the story behind one of Pakistani dramas' most memorable and beloved characters.