Mahira Khan Opens Up on Controversial Tweet Against Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar and Firdous Jamal’s Criticism

Islamabad:Pakistan’s beloved superstar and versatile actress **Mahira Khan** has, for the first time, spoken candidly about her controversial tweet against screenwriter **Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar** and the criticism she faced from veteran actor **Firdous Jamal**.

Appearing recently on **Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast “Excuse Me”**, Mahira Khan admitted her mistake, reflected on her reaction, and clarified her stance.

### **”Yes, I Was Wrong – I Should Have Handled It Better”**

Referring to Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar, Mahira said:

> “We were never friends, but we worked on *Sadqay Tumhare*, which was his story. We made it with a lot of love.
> If you think I was wrong, yes, I agree—I should have messaged him first. He’s right. I could have asked him directly. That was my shortcoming.”

Mahira recalled that while she was shooting for the film *Neelofar*, she came across a late-night video around 4 a.m. showing Khalil-ur-Rehman speaking harshly to a woman.

> “I didn’t care who the woman was. What disturbed me was the behavior—it was unacceptable. We often lack the courage to speak up against powerful people because we fear for our jobs. But I got angry and tweeted. My mother later told me I should’ve spoken to him directly first. She was right.”

She acknowledged that her reaction was emotional, but maintained that her **stance remains unchanged**:

> “This wasn’t an isolated incident; there were several such occasions. I can’t separate the artist from the person. That’s just who I am.”

### **Response to Firdous Jamal’s Criticism**

Addressing veteran actor **Firdous Jamal’s comment** that Mahira is no longer suitable for lead roles, she said:

> “At first, that kind of criticism hurt. But now, it doesn’t affect me. Even during *Punjab Nahi Jaungi*, my own industry criticized me. It was hard to take.”

She added:

> “As long as you’re successful, everyone is happy. But once you become *too* successful, some people feel threatened and turn against you. Most of those who criticize don’t even know me—their opinions are one-sided.”

### **Public Praise for Her Honesty**

Following the podcast, **social media users praised Mahira’s honesty and maturity**, applauding her for admitting her mistake despite her superstar status.
Many fans said this proves her **humility**, while others added,

> “This is what makes Mahira special—she speaks from the heart and always tells the truth.”

Mahira Khan remains one of the few actresses in Pakistan to achieve **equal success in television and film**. Her notable dramas include *Humsafar*, *Shehr-e-Zaat*, *Sadqay Tumhare*, and *Hum Kahan Ke Sachay Thay*. On the big screen, she’s starred in hits like *Verna*, *Ho Mann Jahaan*, *Superstar*, and *Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad*.

She will next appear opposite **Humayun Saeed** in the upcoming film *Love Guru*.