As political tensions continue to simmer between India and Pakistan following a recent military escalation, Pakistani artists once again find themselves caught in a cultural crossfire. The clampdown on Pakistani talent in India has reignited debate across both nations. Amid this backdrop, Mahira Khan, currently in the U.S. promoting her upcoming film Love Guru alongside co-star Humayun Saeed, shared her views during a fan meet-and-greet session. Known for her Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Raees, Mahira offered a balanced and introspective take on the renewed ban on Pakistani artists.
“I think we need to focus inwards, I think we need to focus on our own industries,” she said, emphasizing the importance of strengthening local entertainment rather than retaliating with cultural boycotts. Mahira made it clear that she doesn’t support cancel culture or blanket bans, describing such approaches as counterproductive. Her stance comes as both countries experience a wave of nationalistic sentiment, with emotions running high and cultural bridges being torn down once again.
Instead of endorsing isolation or hostility, Mahira Khan urged emotional restraint and a long-term vision for nurturing Pakistani talent. She emphasized that the solution lies in building up the country’s own creative sectors and investing in sustainable growth for local artists. Her message is one of resilience, self-reliance, and the power of art to transcend borders — a timely reminder of how culture can connect, rather than divide, even in tense times.