Mahira Khan Says Film ‘Neelofar’ Should Have Released Earlier

Renowned Pakistani actress Mahira Khan revealed that her upcoming film Neelofar was completed in 2020 and, in her view, should have been released much earlier. Speaking on HUM News’ program Hum Dekhenge, she acknowledged that audiences have high expectations from her on-screen pairing with Fawad Khan, which is why they only select projects that genuinely resonate with them.

Mahira said she was deeply moved by the film’s story, which follows a writer struggling with creative block who meets a blind girl during a train journey. The two travel to Lahore, where Neelofar belongs. She preserves her “voice signs” through a tape recorder, giving emotional depth to the narrative.

Discussing her role, Mahira admitted that portraying a blind woman was extremely challenging. She was advised to watch various films and even met two blind girls to better understand their lives and mannerisms. Her efforts, she said, were driven by the desire to portray the character with sincerity.

When asked about Fawad Khan as a producer, Mahira smiled and praised him for creating a supportive and professional atmosphere on set. She said Fawad took great care of every team member and ensured that actors could focus entirely on their characters. She described their friendship as similar to “Tom and Jerry” — full of trust, banter, and strong bonding.

Mahira also spoke about the Pakistani audience, noting that TV viewers are highly discerning, while cinema-goers seek different experiences. She added that Pakistan once produced strong, meaningful films, but political and other issues disrupted that momentum. She compared Neelofar to her iconic drama Humsafar, calling HUM Network her “second home” where she has always received affection and support.

Sharing light-hearted moments from the set, Mahira laughed as she mentioned that although she always arrived on time, Fawad often felt she was late. When asked who had the hotter temper on set, she jokingly responded that it was usually Fawad, while she herself remained cheerful and playful.

Mahira went on to reflect on the similarities between the two countries' entertainment industries, saying that shared language and cultural overlap make collaboration smooth and enjoyable. Speaking about Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, she praised his humility, grounded nature, and passion for his craft. She added that Pakistani actors Humayun Saeed, Fawad Khan, and Fahad Mustafa share the same humility, which she believes is the secret to their success.

Discussing her outspoken comments during Pak–India tensions, Mahira said it was an emotional time and she reacted purely from the heart without calculating personal consequences. She emphasized that while she loves her fans everywhere, including in India, people must understand that Pakistan is her home.

When asked about competition with fellow actresses, Mahira said she does not compete with anyone, believing every actor is unique and incomparable. She named Shehnaz Sheikh, Sanam Baloch, and Sajal Aly as her favorites among Pakistani actresses. Among male actors, she admires Fahad Mustafa, Humayun Saeed, and Fawad Khan. She also expressed appreciation for writers Haseena Moin, Farhat Ishtiaq, Umera Ahmed, and Mustafa Afridi.