Pakistani actor Sanam Saeed has said Pakistan’s artists and filmmakers need greater visibility on international platforms after her recent appearance at the Cannes Film Festival in France with designer Hussain Rehar.

Speaking in an interview with Something Haute, Saeed said the visit became an important moment for Pakistani representation and showed the need for Pakistanis to build a distinct global identity beyond the broader “South Asian” label.

Saeed said the attention her Cannes appearance received, including coverage by Indian publications, was not planned. She said she and Rehar went quietly, focused on representing Pakistan, and the response grew naturally.

The actor also responded to criticism over her sleeveless outfit, saying the wider focus should be on the Pakistani craftsmanship behind the clothes. She said the outfits worn in France were made by Pakistani artisans, including women from Bahawalpur.

According to Saeed, Rehar’s designs reflected pride in Pakistan’s culture and creative identity.

Pakistani filmmakers need global access, Saeed says

Saeed said her Cannes visit helped her understand the opportunities available for Pakistani filmmakers, especially women. She said international grants and arts funding are available, but Pakistani creatives need to step forward and engage with those platforms.

The actor said she is considering moving into production to bring together writers and directors for projects aimed at global audiences.

She said Pakistani family dramas already have strong international appeal, but local stories may need to be shaped in a way that connects with viewers beyond Pakistan.

Sanam Saeed speaks on women’s rights and responsible storytelling

Discussing gender disparity in entertainment and workplaces, Saeed advised young women to know their rights, read their contracts and communicate their concerns clearly.

She said Pakistan’s entertainment industry has improved in its treatment of women, especially after efforts by senior artists such as Atiqa Odho to push for unionisation and better workplace awareness.

Saeed also discussed the response to her recent drama Kafeel, saying many viewers had related to its story. She said she chooses socially relevant projects because of their potential impact in real life.

Referring to earlier dramas such as Zindagi Gulzar Hai and Udaari, Saeed said entertainment does not always need to carry a message, but content creators should remain responsible when portraying sensitive issues.

She said dramas that show toxic behaviour without addressing its consequences risk normalising the same problems they depict.