Mahira Khan Shares How Sanjay Leela Bhansali Wanted To Cast Her for ‘Heeramandi’ 15 Years Ago

Mahira’s Missed Chance in ‘Heeramandi’

Pakistani star Mahira Khan recently shared how iconic Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali considered her for his acclaimed Netflix series Heeramandi over a decade ago.

Speaking to BBC Asian Network’s Haroon Rashid, Mahira revealed her connection to the project dates back 15 years. During a trip to Bombay for a childhood friend’s wedding, she crossed paths with Moin Baig, the creator of Heeramandi’s concept, who was in Pakistan scouting for talent. Mahira’s friend, meeting designer Rizwan Baig for wedding attire, learned of the auditions and recommended Mahira, who was then a video jockey.

Mahira recalled a last-minute meeting with Bhansali in India, where they had an extensive conversation. She said the director was thrilled about her involvement in what was originally planned as a film. However, political tensions between Pakistan and India prevented her from joining the cast.

Mahira also met Bhansali later while working on her Bollywood debut, Raees, with Shah Rukh Khan.

Earlier this year, Bhansali reflected on casting for Heeramandi, saying, “At one point, it was also Mahira Khan, the Pakistani actor, then Fawad Khan and Imran Abbas. But then it all changed.”

A “Crazy Ride” in the Industry

Looking back on her career, Mahira described her journey as a “crazy ride,” shared by her audience. She expressed gratitude for her experiences but acknowledged that she now feels more grounded.

“Nothing lasts forever, and this phase that I have been in for so many years has been so amazing,” Mahira reflected. “There will be another phase which I’m also looking forward to—doing different things, going into a different zone of acting.”

Eager to explore new roles, Mahira expressed interest in playing a single mother, while also wondering about her future self. “Will I still be able to dance in the rain or run in a saree?” she pondered.

She celebrated the expanding opportunities in the industry, especially for young talent. “The opportunities are endless, whether it’s for me or other people. It’s amazing.”

When asked if she played a part in paving the way for others, Mahira humbly acknowledged the trailblazers before her. “But, yes, I was in this unique position where somehow I was given this opportunity.”

Mahira emphasized the abundance of talent in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, attributing success to opportunities and blessings.

She also spoke about her approach to work, citing punctuality, hard work, and kindness as key principles. Mahira said she avoided tearing others down, even in private, during her competitive early years.

“I will not stoop down to that level. I will not go down that path, and today when I see success, I make sure that I congratulate it. Because I wish people did that for me; not a lot of people did that for me when I was successful.”

On Marriage to Salim Karim

Addressing her relationship with Salim Karim, Mahira admitted she was once “snobbish” about men but is thankful she didn’t settle.

“I think I fell in love with the man that he is,” Mahira shared. She confessed to liking people before meeting Salim but quickly clarified, “not really, actually.”

Her first encounter with Salim left her thinking, “I’d marry this man.” Yet, she waited years to tie the knot, fearing the commitment.

While acknowledging their imperfections, Mahira expressed pride in her husband. “For every time I was good in life, for every time that I was kind to people […] it was as if God put it all together and blessed me.”

She envisioned a life solely with her son, Azlaan, but now cherishes the expanded family dynamic.

Recalling her son walking her down the aisle, Mahira beamed with pride. “I wanted him to walk me down the aisle, so he did.”