Karachi, 11 November, 2026 (Nosheen): Pakistani actor and filmmaker Faysal Quraishi has responded to criticism surrounding his film ‘Mango Jutt’, saying that public feedback, whether positive or negative, is a natural part of the filmmaking process. Speaking on the sidelines of the World Culture Festival, Quraishi highlighted the importance of film festivals in bringing filmmakers, artists and cinema enthusiasts together, providing opportunities to exchange ideas, learn about filmmaking and explore creative approaches. He said audiences and filmmakers look forward to such events every year, as they offer much more than film screenings, with international participants also attending to showcase their work and engage in meaningful discussions. According to Quraishi, these gatherings help aspiring filmmakers understand how projects are conceived and developed, while inspiring young people to explore different creative opportunities and improve their work. Commenting on the response to his film following its cinema screening and subsequent presentation at the World Culture Festival, he said many viewers had appreciated it, while acknowledging that not every film could appeal to everyone. He noted that even acclaimed films sometimes leave audiences divided, adding that criticism or a difference of opinion was nothing unusual. Quraishi also said social media had provided people with a platform to express their views and that he welcomed both appreciation and criticism. He added that while some viewers praised the film, others did not enjoy it, and he considered such feedback a positive part of public engagement. Clarifying a video he had shared in response to the online criticism, the actor said it was not aimed at any particular individual but was instead a reaction to a message he had received. Quraishi, who made his film debut in 1992, first gained widespread recognition for his leading role as Boota in the television series ‘Boota from Toba Tek Singh’ in 1999. He has since appeared in more than 200 projects and has received over 20 nationally recognised awards. He has also hosted television programmes, including ‘Muskurati Morning’ and ‘Salam Zindagi’, and established Connect Studios in 2017.