Mahira: Been there, done that

Actor explains why Pakistan, not Bollywood, is her safe space

While Mahira Khan is fully booked on the home front, with her new film Love Guru opposite Humayun Saeed hitting screens this Eidul Azha, one question keeps following her across borders: Will she ever return to Bollywood?

During a promotional event for Love Guru in the US, the question came up once again. Her answer was calm, layered, and unmistakably grounded in love for her country.

"I think we need to focus inwards; we need to focus on our own industry," Mahira began, addressing the fan's query head-on. "I'm someone who doesn't believe in the cancel culture or boycotts. I'm speaking broadly, I don't think it's the right approach."

It was a carefully worded reply, but not without heart. Mahira acknowledged the emotional complexity of the current political moment. "Given the current situation, we're all emotional. Instead of advocating such strong stances, which becomes one's prerogative because of circumstances, we should focus on ourselves."

She didn't rule out the idea of cross-border work, but her emphasis was clear. "In the end, it's your country which is your safe space. I believe we should invest in ourselves, in Pakistan."

The internet, predictably, had a lot to say. Some fans felt her response was too soft. Others applauded her maturity and nuance. "She's absolutely right," one user commented. "We should uplift our own cinema." Another wrote, "She didn't slam anyone, she just said what needed to be said."

Many pointed to her Bollywood past, her 2017 debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Raees, which was widely praised despite its timing amid rising India–Pakistan tensions. Since then, Mahira has firmly planted her feet in the local scene, and it's safe to say she's thrived.

For now, Mahira is focused on Love Guru, her continued stardom in Pakistan, and supporting an industry she believes in. Whether she returns to Bollywood someday remains an open question, but she's made it clear where her heart lies. As she puts it: "Your country is your safe space."

Earlier this month, Mahira's presence was quietly scrubbed from Raees promotions during India's digital war on Pakistan following tensions. After similar erasures of Mawra Hocane and Fawad Khan from their Bollywood projects, Mahira is the latest Pakistani actor to be digitally sidelined. The cover of the iconic Raees song Zaalima, where she once stood beside Shah Rukh, now features him alone. Even the album art has been updated to remove her.

Real-life 'love guru'

In the midst of weighty political panels and cinematic chatter, Mahira brought a welcome dose of levity. When a fan asked who they'd trust for real-life love advice, she immediately pointed to herself. Humayun laughed and nodded: "Definitely her. She's great at talking." "Just talking?" she teased. "No, no," he backpedaled, "for giving advice!" Mahira grinned: "Exactly. Don't go to him." It was classic Mahira, sharp, funny, and completely at ease with her long-time co-star. The easy camaraderie between the two only added to the excitement around Love Guru.

Also attracting buzz was Mahira's fashion at Love Guru promotional events. For her standout look at the event, the star wore a royal blue traditional ensemble by Misha Lakhani. The organza outfit featured intricate zardozi and silk thread embroidery, paired with a crushed silk anarkali and a delicately detailed dupatta, creating a silhouette that was both regal and effortless. The look was elevated further with chunky earrings and studded, silver, closed-toe heels.