Feb 12 • 17:15 UTC 🇶🇦 Qatar Al Jazeera

Basil Khayrat: The pigeon that died in my hands was a farewell from my father

Actor Basil Khayrat reflects on his childhood experiences and artistic journey during a heartfelt interview.

In a recent episode of the program 'Kamel Al-Adad', Basil Khayrat shared poignant memories about his childhood and the impact of his father's passing. He described a deeply personal moment when a pigeon died in his hands, seeing it as a final gesture from his father. Khayrat emphasized the importance of genuine experiences and how they shape one's identity and artistic expression, stating that true respect for his audience surpasses his love for them.

Reflecting on his upbringing in the 'Haret Al-Diywania' area of Baghdad Street in Damascus, Khayrat expressed a calm awareness that he would grow to be a significant figure someday. He articulated that his fragility and sensitivity as a child were not weaknesses, but rather transformative stages in his personal development. He acknowledged the complexity of the actor's role, mentioning that actors often find their characters leading them as much as they lead their characters, blurring the lines between artist and art.

Khayrat recounted his journey in the performing arts, including his initial rejection from the Institute of Dramatic Arts, which he described as a pivotal moment in his life. This experience, coupled with the traumatic upheaval of leaving Syria in 2011 with only one bag, profoundly affected his perspective. He realized that life could dramatically change in an instant, leaving behind their home with the belief that they would return shortly, only to face an uncertain future as they sat in front of the Louvre Museum, grappling with the permanence of their departure.

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