LONDON (Haseeb Arslan) – Renowned Pakistani actress Mahira Khan was honored in the UK Parliament for her outstanding contributions to global cinema and her role as a cultural ambassador.
The award ceremony, held in the House of Commons, was hosted by Member of Parliament Afzal Khan in partnership with Samara Events UK and supported by cross-party parliamentarians, acknowledging Mahira’s significant impact on cultural exchange, women’s empowerment, and social advocacy.
A Tribute to Mahira Khan’s Journey and Achievements
In her acceptance speech, Mahira Khan expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her career and the support she has received from her family, mentors, and friends. Sharing insights into her journey, she highlighted her roots in Karachi, where she was raised in a Pashtun family. Mahira shared that her education began at a private school in Karachi before moving to the United States to attend Santa Monica College and later the University of Southern California. As the first woman in her family to travel abroad alone, she described the experience as formative, fostering her independence and resilience.
Mahira paid tribute to her parents, who prioritized education and equal opportunities for their children, empowering her to pursue her dreams. “I am here because of the unwavering support of my family, friends, and mentors. My journey is not mine alone; I stand on the shoulders of many who believed in me,” she shared. Emphasizing the importance of community in her success, she noted, “I don’t agree with the term ‘self-made.’ So many people have helped me along the way, and I owe this success to all of them.”
Speaking to the media after the event, Mahira said, “Receiving this award is especially meaningful because it represents progress for women. Since the start of my career, I’ve worked to create pathways for other women, so they don’t face the same challenges. I’m grateful for the support of my family, colleagues, and friends, who have always stood by me.”
Celebrating Mahira’s Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Dr. Sarah Naeem, Mrs. High Commissioner; Atta Haq, Chairman of the Labour Asians Society; Shafiq Shahzad, Trade and Investment Minister; Manish Tiwari, Co-Chair of the Labour Asians Society; and Maria Saroya, COO of Samara Events UK, along with numerous public figures and community leaders.
MP Afzal Khan praised Mahira’s accomplishments, highlighting her role as a trailblazer for women’s rights and representation. “Mahira Khan’s success story is an inspiration for young women worldwide. She has overcome obstacles, broken stereotypes, and shown that dedication, resilience, and authenticity can lead to extraordinary achievements,” he said. “As a role model, Mahira embodies the values of hard work, humility, and integrity, and her impact reaches far beyond the entertainment industry.”
Atta Haq, Chairman of the Labour Asians Society, also addressed the audience in the House of Commons, expressing pride in organizing the event to honor Mahira. “Mahira Khan is a symbol of peace and passion. Her work in showbiz, culture, humanity, women’s empowerment, and mental health advocacy is truly remarkable,” he said. “She inspires young girls who aspire to enter the entertainment industry and serves as a role model for all who strive to make a difference.”
Dr. Sarah Naeem, Mrs. High Commissioner, acknowledged Mahira’s commitment to gender equality in an industry where inequality remains an issue. “Mahira has consistently used her voice to advocate for women’s rights and gender equality,” Dr. Naeem noted. “Her advocacy goes beyond words; she actively supports women’s empowerment and raises awareness of the challenges they face. Her influence encourages women in Pakistan and around the world to pursue their dreams with courage.”
A Cultural Icon Representing Pakistan on the Global Stage
Maria Saroya, COO of Samara Events UK, commended Mahira’s efforts to promote Pakistani culture on the international stage. “Mahira Khan’s influence extends beyond her screen presence,” she said. “She has brought Pakistani culture to a global audience, challenged stereotypes, and paved the way for more inclusive representation of South Asian voices in media. Through her performances, she showcases the richness of Pakistani heritage, fostering understanding and connection between diverse cultures.”
Manish Tiwari, Co-Chair of the Labour Asians Society, added that Mahira is an inspiration not only in Pakistan but across South Asia, including India and Afghanistan. He applauded her commitment to mental health and women’s rights, underscoring her cross-border impact as a regional icon.
A Pillar of Pakistani Cinema and Social Advocacy
Trade Minister Shafiq Shahzad celebrated Mahira’s role in advancing Pakistani cinema through her acclaimed performances in films like Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad and The Legend of Maula Jatt, as well as her work as producer of the sports web series Baarwan Khiladi. “Mahira has played a vital role in the growth and success of Pakistani cinema and, by extension, in supporting Pakistan’s economy. She is a true icon, representing our culture and talent on a global platform,” he said.
A Vision for the Future
As the first Pakistani actress to be honored in the British Parliament, Mahira Khan’s recognition is a milestone for Pakistani entertainment and a symbol of appreciation for her contributions on a global scale. Her influence as a cultural ambassador, advocate for social causes, and champion for women’s rights is celebrated not only by the people of Pakistan but by admirers around the world.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to support women’s empowerment, cultural understanding, and global representation. Mahira Khan’s achievements remind us that dedication to one’s craft, resilience in the face of adversity, and a commitment to positive change can have a profound impact, both on individual lives and on societies at large.