“I was crying daily:” Mahira on dealing with controversy of viral picture with Ranbir

Lollywood superstar Mahira Khan opened up about how a controversy in 2017 surrounding her photo with Ranbir Kapoor took an emotional toll on her, leaving her fearful for her career and deeply affecting her personal life.

In an interview with the BBC, Mahira recalled reading an article titled "The Little White Dress," which speculated that the former superstar and accomplished woman in Pakistan's entertainment industry was on the brink of falling from grace due to the controversy.

The article cast doubt on how the incident would tarnish her career.

Mahira admitted she was devastated by the article and questioned herself, "Is my career over?"

"I wouldn’t get out of the bed, I was crying daily. It affected my professional and personal life. Lots happened on my personal side," she reflected on that challenging period.

She shared her desire to shield herself and her son, Azlan, from the negative impact the controversy might have on them and her family.

However, Mahira found solace in the support of her friends and social circle, revealing that many of the brands she worked with reached out to assure her of their backing.

The Raees star explained that rather than addressing the controversy head-on, she chose to focus on healing and regaining her composure.

At one of the lowest points in her life, Mahira said her inner child urged her not to give up, and that moment of self-encouragement helped her regain her courage and resilience to embrace her life and career again.

In 2017, Mahira Khan and Ranbir Kapoor were photographed together in New York without their knowledge.

The pictures quickly went viral, sparking a controversy. Mahira faced backlash for wearing a short white dress and smoking.

Despite the controversy, Mahira Khan went on to star in several successful projects , including the hit Mulat Jatt in Pakistan, and remains a beloved and resilient figure in the entertainment industry.