Mahira Khan, the celebrated Pakistani actress, recently shared her emotional journey following the viral photos she took with Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor in 2017. The images, which showed the two actors smoking together while walking in New York, sparked widespread speculation and controversy, significantly impacting her personal and professional life.
In an honest conversation with the BBC Asian Network, Mahira revealed the emotional toll the incident took on her, admitting that she feared her career was over. The actress, who had gained widespread fame for her role in Raees alongside Shah Rukh Khan, was devastated by the backlash and rumors suggesting a romantic connection with Ranbir Kapoor.
Reflecting on the moment when the photos went viral, Mahira confessed, “I remember reading an article and thinking, ‘Is my career over?’” The article, titled The Little White Dress, speculated on the potential end of her career, describing her as a successful actress whose endorsements and fame were suddenly overshadowed by the controversy. “I read it and was like, ‘Damn.’”
The situation emotionally overwhelmed Mahira, who shared that she was so distressed that she stayed in bed for days, unable to function. “I wouldn’t get out of the bed, I was crying daily. It affected my professional and personal life. Lots happened on my personal side,” she revealed. The toll on her personal life was immense, and she struggled to cope with the public fallout.
Mahira acknowledged the support she received from her audience and professional partners during this challenging period. “All the brands called me and said, ‘We are with you,'” she said, appreciating the solidarity from her professional network.
Despite the hardships, Mahira noted that the experience was a transformative one. “It’s been a crazy ride. My audience has travelled this journey with me,” she said, reflecting on the various ups and downs of her life. She also credited her resilience to the personal decisions she made, particularly for the well-being of her child. “I did the right thing personally. I made some personal choices that were right for me and my child,” she stated.
The photos of Mahira and Ranbir, taken without their knowledge in New York, caused a media frenzy, with rumors of a romantic relationship circulating rapidly. The subsequent backlash criticized Mahira for smoking, her outfit, and her interaction with Ranbir Kapoor. Despite the temporary ban on Pakistani actors in India due to political tensions, Mahira has managed to remain relevant both in Pakistan and internationally.
