Renowned Pakistani filmmaker Syed Noor has revealed that he fell in love with actress Saima during the filming of his past blockbuster, Ghunghat.
In a recent interview, he recalled how unexpected casting changes shaped both the movie’s success and his personal life.
Syed Noor shared that actors Neeli and Noman Ijaz were initially considered for the lead roles in Ghunghat. However, both backed out, which opened the door for Shaan and Saima to step into the project.
According to him, Noman Ijaz was originally supposed to play Shaan’s role but withdrew due to personal reasons. This gave Shaan the opportunity, despite initial resistance from buyers who even demanded refunds after hearing his name. On Noor’s insistence, Shaan was finally cast.
How Saima became the lead
Noor further explained that Saima was not the first choice for the female lead either. Actress Neeli was supposed to take the role, but after her departure, the role went to Saima. The director admitted that during the filming of Ghunghat, he developed feelings for Saima.
The film turned out to be a huge success, with audiences appreciating the performances of Shaan and Saima. For Noor, however, it was also the beginning of a personal journey, as he confessed that he fell in love with Saima during the making of the film. Eventually, the two married.
It should be noted that Syed Noor was first married to Rukhsana Noor, with whom he had a son. His first wife has since passed away. Afterward, Noor tied the knot with actress Saima, marking a new chapter in both his personal and professional life.
