Pakistani Star Opens Up About Personal Struggles, Backlash, and Moving Forward
December 18, 2024: Pakistani actress Mahira Khan has opened up about the emotional turmoil she faced when a viral photo of her smoking with Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor took the internet by storm. Speaking candidly in an interview with BBC Asian Network, Mahira admitted that she once feared the incident would mark the end of her career.
“I Thought It Was Over”
Mahira recalled the moment vividly and described reading an article titled ‘The Little White Dress’, published around the time the photo went viral. The actress shared, “I remember reading it and thinking, ‘Is my career over?’ In the article, it said, ‘Here is a woman who has achieved success like no other in Pakistan… and now it is all gone.’”
Reflecting on that tough phase, Mahira confessed, “I told myself, ‘Are you mad? This will pass,’ but I won’t lie, it was very difficult. I wouldn’t get out of bed, I was crying daily. It affected my professional and personal life. A lot happened on my personal side during that time.”
The viral image, where Mahira and Ranbir were seen smoking on the streets of New York, triggered massive backlash, especially in her home country. Rumors about the two actors’ relationship only added fuel to the controversy. Mahira faced harsh criticism for smoking and for her choice of attire, which intensified the scrutiny.
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Staying Resilient Amid the Storm
Despite the challenges, Mahira maintained her strength and chose to remain silent during the controversy. “I made some personal choices that were right for me and my child. Professionally, I kept quiet because I knew I couldn’t say anything at that point. But I was fortunate; all the brands I was working with called me and said, ‘We are with you.’”
Personal Growth and Moving Forward
Mahira has proven time and again that she knows how to bounce back. She remarried businessman Salim Karim last year, having previously parted ways with ex-husband Ali Askari in 2015. Mahira shares a 13-year-old son, Azlan, with Ali and emphasized that her decisions were made for their well-being.
Professionally, Mahira continues to thrive. She is set to star alongside Fawad Khan and Sanam Saeed in the upcoming Netflix series ‘Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo’, scheduled for release next year.
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