We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarish Khan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarish, what role has risk played in your life or career?

Risk requires courage, perseverance, and the humility to learn from both successes and setbacks. I strongly believe that every decision adds value to your life, and shapes your future. I recently completed a run of a play called “Platinum Pussy” that I produced, wrote, and performed in at the Hudson Theatre in Hollywood. Everything about the play, from its name to the subject of female sexuality, was met with resistance and judgement. The word “Pussy” is largely considered vulgar and, more often than not, associated with the metaphorical and misogynistic meaning of cowardice and weakness. I wanted to challenge this narrative, because, well, the vulva is one of the strongest parts of the female body.

The concept of the play, a talk show style conversation between a male host and female guest, touched on themes of sexual liberation, shame, and the patriarchy. It was important to me to highlight the struggles women face when it comes to having autonomy over their bodies and being silenced while simultaneously addressing toxic masculinity, as it pertains to men. In the end, neither character was right or wrong, which left the audience with a sense of intrigue and introspection. It was risky, it was unconventional, and it was ultimately extremely rewarding.

How did you come up with the name of the play? What does that term mean? 
I haven’t heard anyone use the term before, so for now, I’m laying claim to it. It was sort of an impulsive reaction to being told that I have “Big Dick Energy”.  It wasn’t my first time hearing that term, and while it was meant as a compliment it bothered me that being confident and assertive is associated with being masculine. Women have an equal right to be heard, to speak their mind, and demand respect without shame or judgement. That is what Platinum Pussy Energy means to me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

My grandmother, Sabiha Khanum, was an extremely successful and recognized actor in South Asia. She was regarded as the “First Lady of the Silver Screen” in Pakistan and starred in over 200 films, winning multiple awards globally. I grew up around that influence and was naturally inclined to pursue a career in acting. But, I caved to societal pressure and decided to pursue a career in law. I found my way back to a creative career after winning Miss Pakistan USA.

Soon after winning the title, I was offered a lead role in a movie that was being directed by an accomplished Pakistani Director. What followed was a plethora of opportunities: magazine covers, commercials, collaborations (some would call it an “overnight success”). Unfortunately, the movie ended up being a major box office disappointment. The response and criticism was disheartening. I felt that I had failed personally, and in doing so had tainted my grandmother’s glory.

I took some time off, moved to New York City and got right back into chasing my creative ambitions. In the past couple of years, I’ve dabbled into various aspects of the entertainment industry: modeling, hosting, acting, producing and have yet to decide which path to follow. For now, I want to focus on the book. Did I mention I’m writing a book? Well, I am, and yes, it’s called Platinum Pussy!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

One of my favorite things about LA is the variety of experiences it has to offer. I’m still fairly new to the city but if a friend were to visit I would make an itinerary that is equal parts exploration and relaxation. We would go to the beach one day, sunbathe, and listen to the ocean. Grab brunch at a nice rooftop, stop by Soho House (you can catch a stunning sunset from the balcony of the West Hollywood location), and watch a burlesque show. We would spend one whole day exploring a new neighborhood, and perhaps do one of those popular Hollywood tours. But most importantly, we’d talk and spend quality time together!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I want to dedicate this shoutout to my mother. She has taught me to always stand by my truth, even when our values and perspectives are at odds. The topic of sex is extremely stigmatized in South Asian culture. The judgement and criticism that she likely faced, and perhaps continues to face, having a daughter who openly and unapologetically discusses sexuality, is not lost on me. I commend my mother for supporting me, standing by me, and disagreeing with me without stifling my ambitions. THANK YOU MOM!
I want to leave the readers with this:  Live truthfully, make mistakes, explore your wildest ideas, change your mind freely, take risks, and once you find the thing that lights you up, be relentless in your pursuit of it.

Website: https://www.sarishkhan.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isarishkhan/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarishkhan/

Image Credits
Matt Kalish, Jeff Ellingson

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