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Mainstream Indian press has panned Mahira's performance in Raees. Why?

Mainstream Indian press has panned Mahira's performance in Raees. Why?

Was Mahira's debut just not impressive or is the bashing an extension of the Pak-India political tussle?
Updated 25 Jan, 2017

Raees premiered for the press last night and reviews are in.

If fans of Mahira Khan were waiting with bated breath for praise of her Bollywood debut, they should have let out a long, sad sigh by now.

Mahira's performance as Aasiyah, wife of the the titular Raees played by Shah Rukh Khan, has almost been universally panned by mainstream Indian publications.

Many reviews consider Mahira's role too insignificant. Bollywood Life calls her "a decorative showpiece", Hindustan Times says she's "little more than a prop", while Pinkvilla writes that "The otherwise luminous Mahira Khan is not used well... She definitely doesn't do much for the story besides being easy on the eye." Times of India complains that Mahira "doesn’t really add much. If her purpose was to soften the baddie, it’s lost on the viewer."

Also read: Mahira promotes Raees in Dubai, says she still can't believe she's cast in the film

Some publications claim that she has no chemistry with SRK. DNA India says, "The romance between SRK and Mahira has no spark." Indian Express calls her character's coyness "old Bollywood".

Some of the remarks were rather below-the-belt, like Deccan Chronicle claiming that "Debutante Mahira Khan is awful. She is probably the first ever actress paired opposite Shah Rukh Khan who fails to ignite the spark with her chemistry on screen."

It was a known fact that Mahira has a small role in the film, but did her performance really warrant the all-out bashing? Given that the criticism is at times malacious, instead of constructive, one has to wonder whether the tense political climate has impacted the integrity of the reviews.

Mumbai Mirror went as far as to say that "Investing in Mahira Khan's visa was a wasted cause as the actress can barely construct half an expression". Koimoi claims that Mahira "does nothing special and for all we care, any Bollywood actress could have pulled off that role. She even fails to emote appropriately in a few scenes."

Read on: 'We will look good in Raees', SRK tweets to Mahira

It was a known fact that Mahira has a small role in the film, but did her performance really warrant the all-out bashing? Not only is Mahira a well-loved actor in India owing to the popularity of her TV serials like Humsafar, but Raees' trailer and song videos have been well-received. Given that the criticism is at times malacious, instead of constructive, one has to wonder whether the tense political climate has impacted the integrity of the reviews.

This is not to say that her performance wasn't positively reviewed at all. Zee News writes, "Pakistani sensation Mahira Khan is like a breath of fresh air. She has succeeded in making a fair first impression on the audiences." The Financial Express was also all praise, "Mahira Khan makes a startling debut and we hope that once the furor over Pakistani actors has died down, we’ll get to see some more of this wonderful star in Bollywood."

And what do we think?

Watch this space for Images' reviews of Raees, which comes out tomorrow.

Comments

Hreyan Jan 25, 2017 04:48pm
It's unfortunate that the film was released during a tense climate between the two countries. Mahira is an amazing actress, I really liked her performance in Humsafar. It's a shame her acting talents were not used in Raees and she's mainly in the songs, but she still brings a freshness to the film and acted really well int he few scenes with SRK. I hope she is cast in a proper acting role in India.
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Ravi Jan 25, 2017 04:53pm
Zee is right wing news channel and they praised her. She must be good.
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zs Jan 25, 2017 04:59pm
Not even an average performance by her.
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viv Jan 25, 2017 05:00pm
This has nothing to do with India -Pak tension because the trailer itself was released during these tense times and received well with appreciation for Mahira. Further the media which panned her, is very liberal media and surprisingly right wing media like zee news praised her. By the way I have seen the movie and without any doubt her performance as well as chemistry with SRK are below par.The Nawazuddin and SRK gave their best performances.
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Aamer Jan 25, 2017 05:02pm
Media said same things about Deepika and Anushka Sharma when they were paired with Sharukh Khan in their first movies. Look at them now they both are super stars.
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Indian Jan 25, 2017 05:06pm
It has nothing to do with the tense political climate... Wait for the movie to hit Pakistani screens.
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mulchand golchha Jan 25, 2017 05:18pm
I strongly feel that Mahira is an excellent Actress ... she can easily capture top slot in Bollywood film industry. its quite unfortunate that few political parties who is fighting for their existence like Shiv-Sena and MNS keep raising such issues without any public support . we must welcome all talented Pak artist to showcase their talent in India.
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Satyameva Jayate Jan 25, 2017 05:26pm
Mahira appears to be too tight and trying to do too much. She looks amateur and unnatural against professional and natural SRK.
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Ramesh Nakhwa Jan 25, 2017 05:28pm
Just because she is Pakistani she will get criticism in India. But her acting can earn her kudos in India. She should avoid opening her mouth too much, she will regret it. For e.g. I saw a interview of hers on Pakistan television where is heard blaming Bolly wood. That does not sound good. Earn from the same Bollywood and also curse it.
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cookie Jan 25, 2017 05:35pm
The reason why Zee praised her is because it is the official promotional media partner of the film Raees.
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vb Jan 25, 2017 05:40pm
you seriously think mahira getting -ve reviews becoz of indo-pak tension. its a childish remark
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javeed Jan 25, 2017 05:41pm
The main problem I found is with the character itself! The charcter has no power or say for the story! Neither does her man lead give any importance to the character! No doubt Mahira is a great actress but restricting her to few uninportant scenes was injustice to her talent!
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Mona Jan 25, 2017 05:49pm
Watched the First day First show of Raees in Dubai. Mahira looks stunning but so dissappointed to see that such a wonderful actress hardly gets any scenes and dialogues to show her acting skills. You can actually count the number of times she speaks in the whole movie.
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Mysterious kid Jan 25, 2017 05:49pm
Already watched it , All the reviews are true , her performance was poor ..!!
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Prince Dmello Jan 25, 2017 05:56pm
To judge the performance of an actress is the right of critics. Only because they don't praise the performance of an actress in a particular film doesn't make them biased. Only because she is Pakistani doesn't mean she should be praised. This criticism should be taken in a constructive manner.
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bhoy indian Jan 25, 2017 05:59pm
Female actors tend to be used as a prop in the Khan films, barring a few (Anushka in Sultan). Even Kareena's role in Bajrangi Bhaijaan made no sense, added nothing to the film. Mahira stood no chance in front of SRK & Nawaz. It's nothing to do with being a Pakistani. Critics in India anyways pan most of the Hindi films. Fawad Khan was praised a lot in Kapoor & Sons. From whatever I've seen of Mahira Khan on TV she really needs to work on her acting. Right now Fawad Khan is the best Pakistani actor.
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Shahzad Ahmad Jan 25, 2017 06:15pm
@Ramesh Nakhwa I too have watched that interview. Anybody from Anywhere in the world will Try to Project their Culture no matter where they are working at the mo. Watching, Praising and Working in the same movies and then Getting inspired with culture are two different things. If you find Full show you will see she as well said "We shouldn't get inspired of Bollywood Instead we should Make our own Industry Better". So Stop Blaming all the Evil on Us For God Sake. Sometime You People are So Annoying Really.
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Leh Jan 25, 2017 06:23pm
@Satyameva Jayate Really Shahrukh natural and Mahira unnatural. I don't know about Mahiras unnaturalness but Shahrukh needs to step in Fathers and Grandfather's role, so do the other khans maybe with the exception of Amir.
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Ashfaq Jan 25, 2017 06:26pm
@Satyameva Jayate -- really ???????
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KhWarizmi Jan 25, 2017 06:27pm
Indians are in aggressive mood. Better to stay away from 'em for a while :)
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anz Jan 25, 2017 06:28pm
I saw the movie. I enjoyed watching this Pakistani lady emote. If one goes by harsh criticism, the critics (naturally) expect more from her. Welcome to the big boys (persons) club Mahira. Get ready to be ridiculed often. I wish you a thick skin. Cheers and a :)) and many a Clap (not venereal kind) for the young lady.
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Sydel rebello Jan 25, 2017 06:35pm
Clearly mahira khan lacks the qualities of a genuine and complete actress. As she has worked only in Pakistan where the competition is not as tough as bollywood, she lacks behind. But she should grow as an actress with time as she has seen bollywood now. Best of luck for future.
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Shahryar Shirazi Jan 25, 2017 06:41pm
@Ramesh Nakhwa Can yu please send a link to what you heard ?
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Tehreem Jan 25, 2017 06:52pm
I wonder why all the critics suddenly remembered that a female character shouldn't be used as a prop. Indian movies have been doing that since the beginning and even in recent years, female characters are used as eye candy and a source of man pain for the hero. Kapoor and Sons had Alia Bhatt as nothing but a source of contention between the brothers. I won't judge Mahira until I see the movie but I have a feeling that mainstream Indian media is keeping up the tradition of bashing our actors unnecessarily.
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Truth here Jan 25, 2017 06:57pm
She is beautiful, soft spoken and she knows the poetic langauge Urdu so well and on top of it she is pakistani. Pakistanis are generally consider good looking people in india. Even if her acting is bad she gets all the other credit. Fawad khan won Filmfare because he's pakistani and good looking not because of his acting.
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Jawad Jan 25, 2017 06:59pm
A Big Nation with a Very Small Heart.
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Vinod Narang Jan 25, 2017 07:04pm
An humble request to population of Pakistan. Do not fall for the stuff in the Indian news papers. Most of them are politically motivated. Go see it for your self. Mahira is a talented actress(I have seen all most all of her dramas) and i am sure she would have done more then justice with her role. I can bet she will become a Bollywood sweetheart.
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Abdul Muqtadir Jan 25, 2017 07:10pm
@mulchand golchha Very well said.
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zeea Jan 25, 2017 07:37pm
well, in my opinion, I do not think that she is a good actress at all. She is not versatile in acting.
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kash Jan 25, 2017 07:43pm
I am not surprised, her acting is wooden, better stick to dramas. Kaabil all the way for me
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Atticus from India Jan 25, 2017 07:56pm
It's silly to attribute criticism to political tension. Pak artists have and will receive feedback based on how their roles appeal to audience. This could be a flaw in her role as well. Hope to see her bounce back from this.
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riz1 Jan 25, 2017 07:57pm
@Prince Dmello " Only because she is Pakistani doesn't mean she should be praised" Maybe most media (liberal) were less harsh on her as she is Pakistani. We can think how much an Indian actress might have been panned had she done the same role? Surprising to see the usually strident, pro-government Zee news to give a plus to Mahira, but as someone noted, it may just be the money and partnership with the production house.
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isha Jan 25, 2017 07:58pm
critics gave her the cold shoulder same as raees producers . they either ignored her or only said negative stuff. I think the hate won .To each his own but after what happened to her I would want our artists think twice before committing to careers in Bollywood considering the ban on artists is imposed I think she's better off working at home
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Shiva Jan 25, 2017 08:08pm
Guys don't react as if this was the ultimate test Mahira had to take to establish herself as an actor. Just another senseless SRK movie with no role for the lead actress (lead??).
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Shiva Jan 25, 2017 08:12pm
Good for nothing movie now has become talk of the town which will impact the box office collections. Now Mahira will be known outside India & Pak and will be approached by others.
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S. A. M. Jan 25, 2017 08:13pm
there's always a next time Mahira
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Salim Khan Jan 25, 2017 08:15pm
The relationships between the two countries are bad so the Pakistani actors and actresses are bad as well. Don't take it seriously, we must move forward.
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prakash kumar Jan 25, 2017 08:29pm
@viv agree wid u
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sangun Jan 25, 2017 08:39pm
Culturally Mahira is different. Being a pakistani culturally she cant compliment indian actors
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DW 2.0 Jan 25, 2017 08:47pm
S Khan is old enough to be her father. What kind of spark were Indians expecting?
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ayesha Jan 25, 2017 08:57pm
There is no chemistry, I agree anyone could have done that role.
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Indian Jan 25, 2017 09:08pm
Whatever media saying is true or not..Don't know but Mahira Khan is an average actress that is truth..
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Mamma sadeeq Jan 25, 2017 09:30pm
@DW 2.0 ; LOL!
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gus Jan 25, 2017 09:32pm
She could have performed if her character had more weight in the movie, blaming her for small role is not correct. Also this was her first time with SRK and there is some nervousness. Lets not be harsh on her
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Ramesh ahuja Jan 25, 2017 09:32pm
She is at wrong time
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Ramesh ahuja Jan 25, 2017 09:33pm
Wrong place wrong time
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Kris Jan 25, 2017 09:48pm
@Leh Correctly said, but unfortunately, in our Bollywood heroes don't get aged.
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Majid Jan 25, 2017 09:48pm
People still going to watch the movie for SRK, in India and Pakistan.
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Bollywood Jan 25, 2017 09:53pm
May be Mahira was feeling shy and uncomfortable working with super star King khan. One has to be bold to work in Bollywood.
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Sonu Jan 25, 2017 09:58pm
In India also most of tv actors cant perform in movie. Same thing happened with Mahira.
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Live Jan 25, 2017 10:10pm
@Vinod Narang aww you are so sweet. Plz do.watch her pakistani movies. She is adorable and very talented
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TR Jan 25, 2017 10:28pm
Mahira Khan you rock. You are a very talented artist. Don't let any one discourage you. Keep shining.
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Khanna Jan 25, 2017 10:49pm
All the reviews were bang on She cant emote Expressionless...only sore point in a wonderful movie.
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Aaryan Jan 25, 2017 10:54pm
@Satyameva Jayate - Funny SRK disagrees with you.
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Mrityunjay Tripathi Jan 25, 2017 10:56pm
I haven't seen the film, but as per the article, most of the critics are expecting more. What's wrong in that? I've seen her acting in dramas and also in the song 'Shankar wandhane'. She has the acting and dancing skills, Ada, Shokhi, Nakhre, Imli and Namak (could not get proper English words) for a typical lead in Bollywood fantasy. I am sure the role was not powerful enough to do justice to her role.
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Tech talk Jan 25, 2017 11:06pm
Zee News praises Mahira coz the music of Raees is relased on Zee Music, both Essel vision wholly owned subsidiaries....Times of India gtoup papers like TOI, Mirror etc reports differently coz music is not released on Times Music...!!..Trump rightly says ..jourñalists are Dishonest whether from India or US...ridiculuos journalsm indeed
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Hawkish_Dove Jan 25, 2017 11:13pm
Why just criticise Mahira? I am Indian who has watched her Humsafar serial and consider her a wonderful actress. Perhaps her role was inconsequential so the question arises why did the director/producer put an effort to get cross-border talent. But let there b no doubt that she is a very talented artist. A respected critic has said in the whole movie there's only one role that has worth seeing and that is of Nawazuddin Siddique. So it isn't as if SRK has achieved anything close to phenomenol
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Mark & Spencer Jan 25, 2017 11:15pm
mahira has been used as decoration in the corner and nobody want to see it
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Akshay Parihar Jan 25, 2017 11:29pm
She is beautiful she is welcomed in india but u got to admit that this role undermines her worth
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Pradip Jan 25, 2017 11:37pm
@Ravi Nope Zee is not Praising because She is good but because Hamsfar was telecasted on Zindagi TV owned by Zee group .
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waheed Jan 25, 2017 11:52pm
Served her right over rated good for nothing just like fawad khan
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whatever Jan 25, 2017 11:56pm
She is beautiful, charming and smart, Who cares
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rahul kumar Jan 26, 2017 12:03am
@Salim Khan you taking it wrong mate see the film first and decide mahira is really average in the film.
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rahul kumar Jan 26, 2017 12:08am
@KhWarizmi why aggression budy this is just a film forum is for healthy comments.
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rahul kumar Jan 26, 2017 12:15am
@Jawad Haha your comment is hilarious sometime one has to accept constructive criticism this only benefits the person to move forward.
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Hyder Jan 26, 2017 12:25am
Sir Shahrukh Khan is 50 years old and should start taking up senior citizens roles in movies otherwise all his young heroines like Mahira Khan would look misfit with him!!!
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naynn Jan 26, 2017 12:46am
@Sydel rebello I suggest you go to youtube and watch the show Bin Roye. Every episode. It will hopefully give you a very clear idea about exactly how much talent Mahira possesses.
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Shaktiman Jan 26, 2017 12:51am
Honestly I was asking myself, for this only there was so much buzz about ..........I totally failed understand why she is in this story ?? Ps: raees was the first time I have seen her performing
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nawaz islam Jan 26, 2017 12:52am
Watched Raees - what a waste of time!
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Saira kalim mirza Jan 26, 2017 01:30am
Seriously I think mahira is an Aunty trying to do teenagers role
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Ruchika Jan 26, 2017 01:30am
You guys are so crzy. Shahrukh himself is not getting a good response because Kaabil is lot better movie. People are over ambitious after watching Dangal. I love Mahira Khan and i am Indian but if i have to give her feedback i think she must work hard on her dancing style and personality more. Please stop this Indian , Pakistan etc. World is a small place and we are all equal humans living based on our choices or cultures. Enough is enough. Be intelligent while writing. It applies to any Indian newsmaker too or anyone in the world. Be good, be human, be accepting and loving to all. Love Mahira for Humsafar but she needs to work harder a lot to compete with girls like Deepika, Anushka, Kangana, Alia etc. People expect a lot from Mahira in India because they loved her so much that she was direct entry in Shahrukh's much awaited project and more expectations more burden to prove. Stop being negative please.
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Sam Jan 26, 2017 01:37am
She's got her touch of class that is yet to be explored by bollywood . Let's wait for her next role and things will get better for her in the extremely vibrant Indian cinema. Good luck Mahira!
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Nba Jan 26, 2017 01:39am
May be too old shahrukh uncle doesn't suit opposite Mahira Khan
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Nba Jan 26, 2017 01:42am
SHAHRUKH IS NO MORE SUITED TO PLAY THE HEROIC CHARACTERS
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Satyameva Jayate Jan 26, 2017 01:44am
@Ashfaq - 1. First see the movie, only then comment. 2. Do not trust me. Read movie critics' reviews.
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Satyameva Jayate Jan 26, 2017 01:47am
@Leh - The comment was about their acting capability, not about their age. Irrespective of her age, 32 year old Mahira's opportunity with top Bollywood movies is dead and buried.
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Feroz Jan 26, 2017 02:11am
Saw the movie, agree with reviews. Cliched and stiff performance, maybe first time jitters. Its a bit shallow of writer to blame the environment. Didnt Fawad just get an indian award?
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indian american Jan 26, 2017 02:14am
Ok, Let me be honest. I saw her in Pakistani serials. There she actually acted and could bring emotions to the serial. All her pain and suffering in those serials, show real life. Here in Raees, she is used by the producer for marketing the movie to Muslim world. Nothing more. There are numerous actress in Bollywood who are much more talented and beautiful than her. She is not suitable for movies.
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Yasir Khan Jan 26, 2017 02:23am
"The other supporting cast doesn’t have it as good. Mahira Khan is confident as Raees’ love interest, but it’s not a role that requires any heavy lifting." - Rajeev Masand of CNN-IBN The role itself meant that she would not be able to have a substantive presence. Maybe that's what is causing the dismissive reviews more than anything else.
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Rajesh Punjabi Jan 26, 2017 03:14am
What a below ordinary movie this was. I spent 600 indian rupee to watch first day first show, and got very disapointed. Shahrukh should take retirement now.. Mahira was also very ordinary, even rakhi sawant would have played better.
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Javaid Jan 26, 2017 03:20am
she should not have been cast, she does not have the acting ability. She is below average her only hype was a typical saas bahu drama humsafer. There wasn't one in a while and they got the hit.
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saqib mughal Jan 26, 2017 03:37am
That's what you get for running to the enemy... Serves you right.
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KP Jan 26, 2017 04:09am
Going by your own observations, most of the criticism was not directed at the actress or its performance. The criticism was mainly directed to her minimal role and space given to her by the makers of the film. BTW, your maligned attitude towards the reviewers reflect lack of professionalism on your part. Just because she is Pakistani need not get your ovation. MO, u failed to specify whether u have seen the movie.
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Bashir Sheikh Jan 26, 2017 04:32am
Movie is boring.
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Jay uk Jan 26, 2017 05:10am
Just been to the movie and I cannot agree more with the press. Mahaira simply could not carry the expressions on her face making the scene and situation fake. I don't think Indian press has put a biased opinion.
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Ramkoul Jan 26, 2017 05:21am
Mahira has well played her role in the film and it leaves good impression on the viewer.
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Jude Jan 26, 2017 05:27am
I don't think the reviews have anything to do with the political tension. If the performance was good, more positive reviews would have been written.
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viewerUsa Jan 26, 2017 05:36am
This is supposed to be the two best actors Shahrukh Khan and Mahira Khan should have the equal opportunity and balanced roles in the film. Because of the political reasonings the Pakistani actors are not treated as guest by Indian press. I loved Sonum Kapoor and her family to show love and respect for their guest. In USA I have many Pakistani and Indian friends. We don't discuss politics just not to have bed taste. Unfortunately I do not see in today's India. What about all their sayings that Mehman is like our Bhagwan. I know many Indians show good feelings towards Pakistani actors and Pakistan. Let's respect each other and make the world better. Learn good teachings from USA and mind your own business. Please don't force others to speak your language. I had fully supported Zindagi.tv where they wanted unity between two countries. I am very disappointed with them in their current stand.
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Syed Ahmed Jan 26, 2017 05:59am
I just watch the movie she have seen here there were she was is looks very natural beauty, Indian media zee praise her i am also fan of good movies but this was great acting by all actors specialy SRK SDQ MHK and play roll by sadiq head of to all specialy LAILA SUNNY LEONE SPRAK THE MOVIE GO OUT WATCH RAEESE
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Zinc Jan 26, 2017 06:11am
Just came back from watching Raees. Mahira was looking beautiful and stunning. Her acting was absolutely perfect. Im surprised some critics are panning her performance. Can they not see that her scenes have been CHOPPED OFF!!! Her introduction in the movie has also been CHOPPED OFF!! It's so obvious. There are scenes in the trailer that aren't in the movie! Mahiras scenes with srk doesnt connect organically. The scenes look disjointed. It looks as though some scenes are missing! Hence the lack of chemistry. It's not at all her fault. It's the producers fault! Shame on them!!!
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changez khan Jan 26, 2017 06:12am
Mahira is a victim of the 'dirty' politics between the two countries, what else one can expect from the Shiv Sena controlled media? She should have never played this role in an Indian film. Mahira should stick with the Pakistani film and TV industry where her acting is appreciated and loved.
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Jigar Jan 26, 2017 06:15am
Her performance was not so good. Maybe SRK did not suit with her.
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Fida Jan 26, 2017 06:25am
@javeed If her role was small, why did she agree to be in the film. I suppose mainly for money.
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Be Fair Jan 26, 2017 06:55am
Indian media is 100% correct, Mahira is not Depeeka, or any other Indian actresses who rapport with SRK fearlessly, Mahira is a Pakistani actress and had to dress & act like a Pakistani actress. And we Pakistani appreciate her acting as perfect,you like it or not. But still the majority of Indians will like her role,as moral values of people of both sides are same. Inshallah Mahira will get more films,and the critics will like her decent acting in times to come. And will view her films with whole family. A good film has a quality that people come and see it with family.
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Anwar Mahmood Jan 26, 2017 07:03am
Watched Raees few hours ago. Mahira's role was definitely not a meaty one and she was sidelined many times in her scene to make SRK the focus, but despite that she nailed every scene she was in and did better than any actress could have done. May it be Bollywood, Hollywood. She was excellent in the scenes when SRK is being told to run away or when he breaks down on a bench and she had to console him. Love you girl, you made Pakistan proud and proven that atleast one Pakistan actor can stand her ground and demand respect, even if its her first time and against the so-called king of Bollywood. Movie was good, esp. if you liked 80's type movies and Nawazuddin was excellent. He had only 1 brief scene with Mahira though :(
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Anwar Mahmood Jan 26, 2017 07:08am
Watched Raees few hours ago in a packed Maryland cinema at 3 in the afternoon. Not a Bollywood fan myself and it was my only second SRK Bollywood movie that I ever watched. Am a fan of Mahira and though she didn't have a meaty role, she nailed every scene she had. She showed hurt when she was misspoken by SRK or when he is being told to run away. She was kind and supportive when he melts into tears on her shoulder on an outside bench etc. Her inner beauty was obvious throughout, though I douby many regular Bollywood fans appreciate it. Love you girl, you made all Pakistani proud by not lowering your standard and demanding respect even when you acted for the first time against a so called King of Bollywood. Up until most Pak actors from Ali/Zeb, Nadeem to Humaima Malik were exploited in mostly demeaning roles.
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Jamil Soomro, NEW YORK CITY Jan 26, 2017 08:02am
@DW 2.0 Excellent comment. How in God's name can they cast a girl actress with an actor old enough to be her father in the movie? Where is the logic of bollywood directors ? this is insulting. Lolita.
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Carol Jan 26, 2017 08:18am
Don't watch Raees. It is is waste of time esp. Mahira.
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Ali Jan 26, 2017 08:44am
First of all people should not compare mahira with SRK. 2nd in bollywood if hero is a main lead then heroine is just a showpiece. Haven't you guys seen male oriented action movies. What does a heroine do except songs and crying? Mahira has made to bollywood because of her performance in drama and pretty face. So she got something for the film maker. Once the tension between the two countries is neutralized then see mahira in other movies and changed reviews.
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Muzaffar Saeed Jan 26, 2017 08:58am
Mahira is a talented actress as she proved it in Humsafar and "Meri Zaat Zarra e Be Nishaa'n" . Yes, it was her first appearance in the Bollywood which may have made her a bit un-natural.
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Jagdi singh Jan 26, 2017 09:12am
Mahira is a very good actress as we saw her on zindagi channel. I have seen raees but there is not much for her in the film to show her acting prowess. That probably explains the reviews she received from Indian media. And why only mahira the entire film disappoints including Shahrukh. The only shining star is Nawazuddin Siddiqui
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Beeri Panwala Jan 26, 2017 09:22am
Maybe her performance was not good enough and it had nothing to do with prejudice. Or her performance was good and it had all to do with prejudice. Or her performance was say average and prejudice made it bad. We have to see the movie and judge if we are allowed to, that's why we should be allowed to critique our own artists rather then be at the mercy of the foreign press.
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Quaid Zia Rehman Jan 26, 2017 09:25am
@mulchand golchha i salute you bro. From pakistani brother
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Jawaid Islam Jan 26, 2017 09:30am
Jealousy, a star able to shine is always put into the negative slot by rivals and in the current scenario, all the ore!
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Brijesh Jan 26, 2017 09:34am
Pakistanis should learn to accept reality and should have heart to take criticism. Pakistani artists get opportunity in India because Indian producers wants to sell their movies in pakistan ,and Pakistanis comes cheap .it's not because of their talent. I have seen raaes & I was wondering what was the need of Ms Khans character it wasn't needed at all . It's more commerce than art
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Good Point Jan 26, 2017 09:35am
None of the reviews should be attributed to the fact that she is Pakistani We dont hate everything Pakistani. Just some elements and their support.
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isha Jan 26, 2017 09:55am
I just saw raees. Mahira has done complete justice to her part or what is left of it one can tell Her scenes are chopped off one can clearly tell since they were in the trailer . She was meant to act and have mannerism according to 80's which she does. She held her own ground infront of SRK. The two look like husband and wife as they are meant to . Its honestly surprising and sad to see the media's bias. SRK was brillant
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Sagarika Jan 26, 2017 09:59am
Mahira is not only beautiful but also amazingly talented. As Indians are used to see half naked heroines roaming around, they cannot appreciate graceful dignified Mahira.
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Sagarika Jan 26, 2017 10:00am
Indians are so used to seeing half naked vulgar heroines, they cannot appreciate graceful and talented mahira
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SAIMA Jan 26, 2017 10:10am
mahira was just a pretty face. and chemistry was definitely not there. that coy face and uneasiness was too obvious
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Abbas Jan 26, 2017 10:25am
Its no about her origin, bollywood yields thousand new faces every year still if someone tries to bring bring an acteress from anather country then naturally expectations were quite high. The movies itself was mediocare to its core. While other KHANs are doing much more interesting work not sure what srk was thinking doing projects such as dilwale raees dear zindagi etc. Mahira was average in the movie since expectations were high from her she was panned by many.
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ADNAN MAZHER khan Jan 26, 2017 11:26am
I think it should be enough for Mahira. Pakistan has given her name and identity. She should not lose it in India.
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Vivaan SINGH Jan 26, 2017 11:44am
I think Pakistani actor only good in drama
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Lisa Jan 26, 2017 12:05pm
In blockbuster Dangal the lead opposite Aamir Khan is Sakshi Tanwar who is also from TV and a very popular actress like Mahira. The critics said that she did justice to the small role and was OK in which there was no scope for her to show her skills. Surprised Mahira got such bad reviews from press considering she is a decent actress. I have not watched Raees though.
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Aamer Jan 26, 2017 01:23pm
I saw this movie last night; now I can say the best thing about this movie was Mahira Khan. She did a great job from her 1st scene up until the end. This was a gangster movie in which Mahira Khan portrayed a Muslim house wife. It was a male dominated movie but Mahira stood out of the crowed and proved her self. She is a new actress, she did few films in Pakistan and Raees was her first movie in India so you can’t expect Nargis, Meena Kumari, Sharmeela Tagor, Rekha, Shabana Azmi, Sri Devi, Maduri or Kajol’s level of performance from her at this stage. She had a great chemistry with SRK hope they do love story next time not a gangster.
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Aisha Jan 26, 2017 01:59pm
Can I just add, mahira khan is a very hardworking actress and one of many talents in the acting field. You simply cannot bash her like that. Why? Because she acted as per instructions given by the director . You have to realise she is capable of a lot more and one day will break the screens !
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TR Jan 26, 2017 02:35pm
Mahira Khan you are a very talented artist. I admire your talent. Do not let any one discourage you. Keep shining.
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Mushirk Jan 26, 2017 04:33pm
She was alright. Stop tryna kill a mosquito by a nuke. She gonna be roped up for a new Bollywood role anyday now.
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Sallu bhai Jan 26, 2017 09:00pm
Mahira and Fawad Khan are both TV actors, they are for the small screen, and they do a great job on small screen. Nothing to do with India vs Pakistan vs Politics. By the way, I am a Pakistani!
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Sourav Jan 26, 2017 09:08pm
Mahira's talent was underutilized. A fine actress can't suddenly become bad. The character itself was short & uninspiring.
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mathew Jan 27, 2017 09:45am
Absolutely i fully agree with you.
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viewerUsa Jan 28, 2017 08:35am
Let me be honest, although I like Shah Rukh khan but I did not watch his last few movies. The main reason I want to watch this movie is Mahira Khan not Shah Rukh Khan. As I read reviews, it make me sad that a justice is not done to a great actress. The original movie was supposed to be 3.15 hours now cut to 2.5. Are these cuts for Mahira Khan like Fawad Khan latest movie? It is very sad to see that so many Indians are so much narrow minded. I know that there are many Indians who are not narrow minded. I do not know what happened to Gandhi teachings to love others. I was in the impression that Indians love and respect guest. Is this the love shown here towards Pakistani counter parts. Do many Indians feel that they are most innocent people. Please show with your behavior and actions and show love and respect to all others. We are all same. Living in USA and see love and respect for neighbors. Please wake up.
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Jaya Jan 28, 2017 01:04pm
She was given a small role but handled it beautifully. And everyone collectively agreed, even from the songs alone, that Mahira and SRK had great chemistry. It's strange that these critics "unable" to see the chemistry would most likely otherwise praise the chemistry between SRK and certain other actresses who truly can't emote anything. Another interesting point is that the casting of Mahira was a point of excitement between both countries up until the recent events.
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Jaya Jan 28, 2017 01:16pm
@Satyameva Jayate Priyanka Chopra is 34. Deepika is 31. So why is Mahira "done" at only 32? This ageism towards women is sickening while the men keep going into their 50s and 60s.
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Mango Jan 28, 2017 02:06pm
I loved Mahira's part in Rares. Yes, it was small, but she made it look good. Charming mostly, but at times with spark and confidence. hope we can have more of her and other beautiful actors and actresses in Bollywood from Pakistan
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Akhtar Ali Khan Jan 28, 2017 10:28pm
I saw Mahira Khan in the well-known Pakistani drama, "Humsafar," and Raees. Unfortunately, except for keeping a poker-face (and smiling occasionally), she is unable to project any other emotions. Her acting is not even worth the time watching her. She fails to impress upon the audience that her acting is a "real life experience." Unfortunately, she is not alone. Almost all Pakistani actors suffer from the disease. The act but do not feel the part of their role. Perhaps because they haven't undergone the roger of the "drama acting" under any known teacher or at a known drama academy.
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Arun-KS Jan 29, 2017 11:46am
Failure has many excuses. But of course, Mahira may be capable doing wonders in other roles.
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Khanna Jan 29, 2017 08:38pm
Criticism was totally valid...and all those ridiculing shah rukh for his age..mahira is not young either...shahrukh has acted with girls younger than mahira and chemistry was great...but mahira cannot emote..maybe for pakistani Tv but not Indian movies for sure...the scenes she was crying people were laughing in the audience...her expressions were soo bad
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Aslam Jan 30, 2017 09:06am
Please don't create controversy where there is none. The Indian media panned Mahira's role not because of the tense political climate (critics have been largely positive towards the recent roles of Fawad Khan and Ali Zafar in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Love You Zindagi, respectively), but because Mahira's acting in Raees was awful. I'm not familiar with her work in Pakistan... I'm sure she's more talented than she showed in this film. But not only was the role itself underdeveloped, Mahira didn't show any acting prowess at all and her weak portrayal was actually distracting from the movie. It doesn't help to be in a movie where Nawazuddin Siddiqui puts up a killer performance and SRK dominates the screen.
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viewerUsa Jan 30, 2017 04:50pm
Watched this movie yesterday. This is a good movie but focused on ShahRukh khan and Nawazuddin. Mahira khan is more like an extended supporting role. She acted very well and looked impressive where ever she appeared. My wife and I felt that she was used to promote Shahrukh khan and get revenues from Pakistan and other countries from Mahira Khan followers. The only positive thing for Mahira Khan is to act against Shahrukh Khan. Beside that movie is a good and worth watching
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