Pakistani actress Mahira Khan became a household name in India after her Bollywood debut in Raees alongside Shah Rukh Khan. While Mahira was already popular in Pakistan due to her performances in hit TV dramas, it was Raees that introduced her to a massive Indian fan base. Interestingly, her entry into Bollywood came with a little help from Shah Rukh Khan’s mother-in-law, Savita Chhibber.
The Surprising Link: How Mahira Got Raees
Casting for the female lead in Raees wasn’t easy. The filmmakers needed someone with a classic 1980s look who could handle dialogues in both Hindi and Urdu fluently. Shah Rukh’s mother-in-law, Savita Chhibber, reportedly recommended Mahira Khan for the role. She saw Mahira’s potential and believed she was a perfect fit for the role. After Mahira’s audition impressed the team, she secured her place in the film, marking her Bollywood debut.
From Humble Beginnings to a Rs 170 Crore Net Worth
Mahira’s success story isn’t just about stardom; it’s about perseverance and hard work. Raised in Pakistan, Mahira moved to California for her higher studies. She had to support herself financially while studying, which led her to take up a job in a store. Her role wasn’t glamorous—she worked as a cashier and even had to handle the cleaning duties, including sweeping and mopping floors. But Mahira’s focus and determination kept her going, helping her move toward her dream.
Today, Mahira Khan is not just a successful actress but a savvy businesswoman as well. Her net worth is estimated to be around Rs 170 crore. Apart from her career in acting, she owns a clothing line, M by Mahira Khan, which further boosts her income and influence.
The Connection Between India and Pakistan Through Art
Despite the political tension between India and Pakistan, artists like Mahira Khan are cherished on both sides of the border. Just as Indian stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have fans in Pakistan, Pakistani stars such as Mahira have their own dedicated fanbase in India. Her Bollywood debut was not just a career milestone; it became a testament to the power of art and cinema in bridging cultural divides.
