Actress Sumbul Touqeer has opened up on the physical and mental toll of long working hours in television, emphasising the critical need for adequate recovery time between shoots. Speaking in an exclusive interaction, the 'Imlie' star revealed that the relentless pace of daily production — combining performance, memorisation, and sustained focus — leaves performers drained without proper rest cycles.

The toll of extended shifts

"I have experienced long working hours in almost every show," Sumbul said. "It gets very hectic—physically and mentally exhausting. You are constantly performing, memorizing lines, and staying focused." She underscored that when work extends beyond standard hours, recovery becomes non-negotiable. "If you are working extra hours, it is important to get proper rest afterward to recharge," she added, highlighting a pattern that affects performers across the television industry.

On-set treatment and workplace conditions

When asked whether she had encountered unfair treatment during shoots, Sumbul denied having faced such issues directly. However, she signalled openness to speaking out if problems arose. "If it ever happens, I will definitely talk about it," she said, suggesting that transparency around workplace grievances remains limited in the sector.

Television storytelling at a crossroads

Sumbul also flagged the need for television's narrative formats to evolve in response to changing audience preferences and the rise of streaming platforms. "Change should be constant," she stated. "As time moves forward, storytelling patterns must evolve as well. We cannot keep presenting the same content repeatedly. If there is scope for improvement in television storytelling, it should definitely be explored." Her remarks reflect broader industry concerns about television's relevance amid OTT competition.

Personal and professional evolution

Reflecting on her own journey since entering the industry, Sumbul described a marked shift in her personality and work approach. She acknowledged becoming significantly more extroverted over time, though her temperament has fluctuated with career transitions. "When I first entered the industry, I was quite introverted. I didn't speak much and was very shy," she recalled. "During Imlie, I became quite extroverted, but after Bigg Boss 16, I turned a little reserved again. Right now, I would say I am somewhere in between—it really depends on my mood." Her candour underscores how high-profile roles and reality television appearances reshape performers both professionally and personally.