We need to stop pitting women against each other, Mahira Khan on her equation with Saba Qamar

Actor Mahira Khan has addressed longstanding rumours of a rivalry with Saba Qamar, calling the narrative “manufactured” and rooted in a broader tendency to pit prominent women against one another.

Speculation first began circulating about the two in 2019 after Saba appeared on The Munshi Show. When asked about her equation with Mahira, she responded candidly, “we are not friends.” The remark quickly sparked online chatter, though it stemmed more from fan speculation than any real-life dynamic between the two actors. Saba clarified immediately afterward that “there in no such issue between us either simply because we have never interacted or worked together. She is doing great work in her own lane and I am in mine.”

Since then, Mahira has repeatedly been asked for her response, and she has consistently praised Saba’s talent while questioning why successful women are so often framed as adversaries.

Appearing on the Vasay Chaudry Show as part of their up-coming movie Neelofar’s promotion, Mahira Khan stated simply, “I’m not being diplomatic, I think Saba is a brilliant actress.” She added that it is not personal to anyone; she simply has very few friends within the industry, and used the opportunity to explain that the narrative surrounding her and Saba is part of a larger culture of pitting successful women against each other. “We underestimate what two powerful women can do if they come together. Hopefully, if we ever collaborate, it can be a really good product. We have a broader world-view problem where, the moment we see two successful women, we pit them against each other, and it works for everyone except them.”

Both actors have now publicly dismissed the narrative, finally putting the rumours to rest. However, the discussion itself shows how quickly speculation can take on a life of its own in showbiz and often overshadow the actual work and achievements of women in the industry.