Exclusive - Waseem Mushtaq to play ruthless politician in Ishq Junooni, says, 'I've been waiting years for a solid negative role'
ETimes July 01, 2026 12:39 AM
Actor Waseem Mushtaq is set to embrace his dark side on television. The actor, last seen in Ram Bhavan , will now step into Ishq Junooni as a powerful and wicked politician.
Speaking about the role, Waseem said, "I am playing a powerful and wicked politician. And I am finally, after years, getting to play an out-and-out negative character. I have shot for a couple of days and it's a solid negative and super interesting character to play."
This marks his first time playing a neta on screen, and he admits it comes with its own challenges. "Yes, it's the first time I am playing a politician and it feels really challenging to bring that authority and shrewdness into your body language and personality. Politicians of every state are different and the show is based on a UP and Bihar backdrop, so the politicians of this belt are very hardcore, rustic and ruthless... So it's very exciting."
For an actor largely known for positive parts, this is a sharp turn. "Definitely this role is poles apart from characters I have done before as I have mainly played positive characters. I think it's almost after 4-5 years that I am playing an out-and-out negative character and this character is very well written. I have tried to change my look as well to fit in the character physically... this is actually the first time in my career that I will be having a heavy stubble look and it's looking good from the feedback I am getting," he shared.
Waseem added that he’s eager for audience reaction : "Now waiting for the audience's reaction as they see it... but personally I am very happy because I have been literally waiting for years to get a solid negative character. I hope the audience likes it."
Waseem Mushtaq is a familiar face on TV, with popular shows like Amrit Manthan, Kahaan Hum Kahaan Tum, Sasural Simar Ka 2, Spy Bahu, Aangan Aapno Kaa, and Bhagyavidhaata to his credit.
