In a recent interview, renowned Pakistani actress Mahira Khan opened up about the profound impact of her 2017 viral photos on her mental health and career. The incident, which involved leaked images of her smoking with Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor, stirred a media storm across Pakistan and India. Seven years later, Mahira Khan candidly shared how the episode affected her emotionally, mentally, and professionally.
The Viral Photos That Sparked Controversy
Back in September 2017, Mahira Khan and Ranbir Kapoor were photographed together in New York. In the photos, Mahira was seen wearing a short white dress and smoking a cigarette alongside Ranbir. The images quickly went viral, sparking debates and criticism on social media. Speculation about a romantic relationship between the two also made headlines, although Mahira dismissed such rumors as baseless at the time.
Mental Health Struggles in the Aftermath
Reflecting on the aftermath, Mahira revealed how the incident took a toll on her mental health. She admitted to experiencing severe depression, crying alone for nights, and struggling to make sense of the overwhelming situation. “I didn’t understand what was happening to me or how to talk about the issues I was facing,” she said.
Mahira explained that during those difficult days, an article titled Little White Dress provided some solace. Written by a female journalist, the article discussed the societal pressures and mindsets that had amplified the controversy. While the article acknowledged Mahira’s meteoric rise to fame, it also highlighted how a single viral photo seemed to overshadow her achievements.
Career Resilience and Support from Brands
The viral controversy led Mahira to fear that her career might be over. Public criticism and online trolling made her question her future in the entertainment industry. However, her resilience shone through when brands and charities stepped forward to support her. Mahira expressed gratitude for the encouragement she received, which gave her the strength to address her mental health struggles.
She said, “When brands assured me they would continue working with me, it gave me the courage to move forward.” Mahira admitted that she initially worried brands would distance themselves from her due to the scandal, but their support proved instrumental in helping her regain her confidence.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
During this challenging period, Mahira chose to remain silent for the sake of her personal life and family. She prioritized the honor and safety of her son and family over addressing the controversy publicly. Despite the intense scrutiny, Mahira found solace in her loved ones and the unwavering support of her fans.
Mahira acknowledged that her journey wasn’t easy, but she credited God for helping her navigate through the storm. She reflected, “If I were not in showbiz and working in another field, I might still have faced challenges, but perhaps I wouldn’t have received so much love and support.”
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Mahira described the smoking controversy and its aftermath as a mistake, one that she has since learned from. Without naming Ranbir Kapoor, she acknowledged that such incidents are part of life and career, emphasizing that every human being makes mistakes. She said, “These experiences shape us, and they’re part of the journey.”
The actress also highlighted the unique challenges of being a public figure. She spoke about the pressure of maintaining a public image and dealing with online criticism, which often takes a toll on celebrities’ mental health. Mahira emphasized the importance of speaking openly about mental health struggles, noting that such conversations can help others facing similar challenges.
The Impact of Fame and Social Media
Mahira’s reflections shed light on the darker side of fame and the impact of social media on celebrities. The incident demonstrated how quickly public opinion can shift and how personal moments can be magnified into controversies. Despite the negativity, Mahira emerged stronger, proving her resilience as an artist and individual.
A Story of Strength and Resilience
Mahira Khan’s candid revelations about her mental health struggles following the 2017 viral photos offer a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by public figures. Her journey highlights the importance of support systems, resilience, and self-care in overcoming adversity. By sharing her story, Mahira has not only reclaimed her narrative but also inspired others to prioritize their mental well-being.
As Mahira continues to thrive in her career, she remains a symbol of grace and resilience, proving that setbacks can lead to personal growth and renewed strength.
