Actor and singer Farhan Saeed has spoken about the emotional impact of playing Anas in Bas Tera Saath Ho, saying intense audience criticism of the character began affecting his own mood and behaviour.
During a recent meet-and-greet and media interaction for the drama, Saeed discussed the strong reaction to the series and the criticism directed at Anas.
“The drama itself has become a drama. People around me also told me that I started to get very irritated because of the constant bullying,” Saeed said.
He added that portraying the character had also affected him personally, saying, “I also got trauma from playing this character, myself.”
Bas Tera Saath Ho, which has entered its final week, stars Saeed opposite Sana Javed. Saeed plays Anas, an orphan whose life changes after he discovers that relatives who raised him have been manipulating and exploiting him while pursuing his family property.
After meeting Ansa, played by Javed, Anas begins opening up about the hardships he has experienced. The two gradually develop a close bond, although Anas continues to keep parts of his past and personal struggles to himself.
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The character has generated mixed reactions among viewers. Some have criticised the pace and direction of the story, while others have supported the portrayal of a male protagonist who is vulnerable rather than traditionally heroic.
One viewer defended Saeed’s performance, arguing that not every drama needs a conventional hero who suddenly transforms overnight. The viewer described the story instead as one centred on “sharing and understanding.”
Other viewers, however, have questioned the development of the plot and argued that the drama could have focused more closely on its central conflict and characters.
Saeed previously discussed Anas in an interview with BBC Urdu, where he challenged the idea that men do not experience pain or express their emotions. While acknowledging that women face systemic challenges, he said men can also experience suffering and emotional suppression.
The actor said he had initially been hesitant to accept the role because Anas was unlike characters he had previously played.
However, messages from viewers who said they related to Anas and his struggles helped Saeed understand the character’s impact. He said their responses showed that the story had resonated with some audiences despite the criticism surrounding the drama.
As Bas Tera Saath Ho approaches its conclusion, Saeed is also continuing his music career. He recently released Pul Gulab Da and Beparwah, while the drama’s title track, performed by Saeed, was released in May.
