Pakistani actress Mahira Khan has voiced her disappointment over repeated bans on artists, especially during times of political tension between Pakistan and India. She believes that art connects people, which is why artists are often the first to face restrictions in such situations.
In a recent interview, Mahira was asked about Indian social media platforms limiting access to Pakistani artists. She said she had no harsh reaction, but admitted it was disheartening. “I still love my fans in India,” she said. “People are not the problem — these bans come from political decisions, not the public.”
Reflecting on the bigger picture, she said, “If a war breaks out or political tensions rise, the first target is the artist. It’s something to think about. Artists, and the art they create, are what truly bring people together — which is probably why they’re silenced first.”
Mahira, who gained massive fame on both sides of the border through projects like “Raees” with Shah Rukh Khan, stressed that political disputes should not dictate cultural exchange. “I don’t believe in bans. Art should never be a casualty of politics.”
Addressing how these bans affect her career, she added, “I’m an artist. If films stop, I’ll do TV. If that stops, I’ll do theatre. I’ll keep going. It’s not about me — it’s about the idea that art survives, even when politics fails.” Her calm and reflective stance highlights the power of creativity in difficult times.