KARACHI:

Actor Shamoon Abbasi knows that his strength lies in accepting and performing challenging roles, but the real motivation behind his work in a Punjabi film was his friendship with fellow actor Faysal Quraishi.

Abbasi and Quraishi are reunited on screen after nearly a decade. They are appearing together in the upcoming Lollywood film, Mango Jatt. Directed by Abu Aleeha, the film brings together action, comedy and romance and is expected to release later this year.

Shamoon Abbasi, speaking with The Express Tribune about his role, said the offer initially came with the challenge of performing in Punjabi, a language in which he was not fluent, but he accepted it as part of his acting journey.

“Taking challenging roles has always been my strength,” he said, adding that working again with Faysal Quraishi was a major motivation. “We are friends off-screen and there are never insecurities between us. That comfort reflects in our work.”

Abbasi also praised the film’s title, calling Mango Jatt “catchy and humorous”. He said it reflects the tone of the project. He confirmed he plays the antagonist, describing his character as being on a constant chase, adding a layer of action-driven tension to the narrative.

Starring Hareem Farooq in a key role, the film also features an ensemble cast including Hassan Murad, Qaiser Piya and others. “A romantic comedy with strong family appeal,” director Abu Aleeha said. He added that Mango Jatt is not an action-heavy film. “The teaser’s tone does not reflect the film’s actual genre.”

He said the film is “a beautiful romantic comedy and a children’s film”, adding that it has been designed as a complete family entertainer. “This is not a stylised action film as it may look in parts. When you watch it, you will see it is a simple, warm romantic comedy,” he said.

Abu Aleeha added that the film highlights Punjab’s culture and scenic beauty in detail, including sequences shot in areas such as Nankana, which he said have been shown “beautifully and differently from before”. He also revealed that the film marks his first full-scale commercial project, describing it as “Paisa Wasool” with strong musical and visual appeal.

The director said the story includes “small, beautiful elements of Punjab”, along with comedy and family-oriented themes. He added that the film features several interesting child characters, which form an important part of the narrative.

Abu Aleeha confirmed that Ayesha Jahanzeb will make her debut in the film, alongside a large supporting cast. With its mix of humour, romance and cultural backdrop, Mango Jatt is being positioned as a mainstream commercial Punjabi film targeting family audiences.