Superstar Mahira Khan has turned 40 and in those years she has established herself as a global icon. Whether it’s for humanitarian causes or dazzling at awards shows, the star has proven time and time again that she is a force to be reckoned with.
Not only this, Mahira proudly exclaims to the world about her son, Azlaan, who was born in 2010, clearly showing that being a mother to her son is one of her greatest joys.
As the “Humsafar” actress celebrates her 40th birthday, here are a few moments from her vast and diverse career that prove her to be the icon she is:
Debut at the Cannes Film Festival dressed in black
Debuting at the 71st Cannes Film Festival in 2018, Mahira had rocked the red carpet adorned in an off-shoulder, figure-hugging black Alberta Ferretti dress.
The star looked stunning while wearing minimalist jewellery, a diamond necklace and earrings, proving that beauty can be achieved with simplicity.
Appointment as UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador
In 2019, Mahira was appointed UNHCR National Goodwill Ambassador after having been advocating and fighting for Afghan refugees in Pakistan.
UNHCR then stated that Mahira had strongly supported the organization’s work in recent years before her appointment.
“I feel privileged to have been chosen to serve in this noble cause,” she had said.
Since then, the activist and humanitarian actor has been working with UNHCR and visited its Voluntary Repatriation Center in Nowshera, a refugee settlement in Karachi and the Islamabad Refugee Summit.
Mahira made it to the BBC’s 100 most influential women
As bbc released its list of 100 most influential women in 2020, Mahira also made it to the list with several other powerful and influential women.
Her advocacy against sexual violence, her refusal to recommend skin lightening creams and her fight against racism landed the star on the list, the bbc had said.
“He wants to address social problems in his native Pakistan by changing the narrative in films and on television,” he added.
British Asian Trust Ambassador
In 2022, the British Asian Trust appointed Mahira as an ambassador to support their work across South Asia.
The “Superstar” actor has always openly championed the cause of mental health programs and awareness. Her advocacy for this cause was what led to her appointment as ambassador.
“Given that almost 90% of people who need mental health treatment do not have access to any support, Mahira supports the British Asian Trust’s ongoing Peace of Mind campaign, which aims to raise awareness of the issues and needs of mental health in both Pakistan and Bangladesh. “, the BAT had said at the time.
Honored by the UK Parliament
Lastly, Mahira was honored by the UK Parliament for her impact on cultural exchange and women’s empowerment at a ceremony held in the House of Commons in November 2024.
The honor bestowed by the United Kingdom on the “Bol” actor is further proof that Mahira is a global icon who continues to gain global recognition for her achievements.