Mahira Khan opens up about emotional toll of viral photos with Ranbir Kapoor

The actress recalls how viral photos with Ranbir Kapoor shook her emotionally, leaving her unable to get out of bed.

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Mahira Khan, the renowned Pakistani actress, recently opened up about the emotional impact of the viral photos she shared with Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor in 2017.

The photos, showing the two actors smoking together while strolling in New York, sparked widespread speculation and controversy, severely affecting her personal and professional life.

In a candid conversation with the BBC Asian Network, Mahira recalled the emotional toll the incident had on her, revealing that she thought her career was over.

The actress, who had gained immense popularity with her role in Raees alongside Shah Rukh Khan, was devastated by the backlash and the rumours of a possible romantic link with Ranbir Kapoor.

Reflecting on the time when the photos went viral, Mahira admitted, "I remember reading an article and thinking, ‘Is my career over?’" The article, titled The Little White Dress, speculated about her fall from grace, questioning the future of her flourishing career. It described her as a successful actress whose endorsements and fame had been abruptly tainted by the controversy. "I read it and was like, ‘Damn.’"

The emotional weight of the situation took a significant toll on Mahira. She shared that she was so overwhelmed that she could not bring herself to leave her bed for days.

"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 actress admitted that the personal toll was immense, and she struggled with the consequences of the incident, which played out publicly.

She spoke about the support she received from her audience and professional partners during this time. "All the brands called me and said, 'We are with you,'" Mahira said, underscoring the solidarity she experienced from her professional network.

However, she acknowledged that the period following the viral photos was one of the most difficult. "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.

Mahira also expressed that despite the tough times, there have been moments of triumph and growth, which helped her bounce back. She attributed her resilience to her strong personal choices, including the decision to focus on what was best for her child. "I did the right thing personally. I made some personal choices that were right for me and my child," she said.

The viral photos of Mahira and Ranbir first made headlines when they were spotted together in New York, with cigarettes in hand. The images, which were taken without their knowledge, quickly sparked rumors about a romantic relationship.

The media frenzy that followed led to harsh criticism of Mahira, especially regarding her smoking, her outfit, and her interactions with Ranbir Kapoor.

The actress has managed to maintain her relevance in both Pakistan and internationally, even though she faced a temporary ban from Indian films, along with other Pakistani actors, due to political tensions between India and Pakistan.