From Fawad Khan to Mahira Khan: Pakistani stars who made their mark in Bollywood

Some faces just have star power — and a few Pakistani talents brought exactly that when they crossed over into Bollywood.

Whether it was Fawad Khan’s smouldering charm, Mahira Khan’s timeless grace, or Atif Aslam’s voice ruling every romantic playlist, these stars made their mark and left audiences swooning.

Their screen time may have been limited, but their impact? Unforgettable. Here’s a quick round-up of the Pakistani stars who lit up Bollywood with their talent, even if just for a moment.

Fawad Khan led the pack with a dream debut in Khoobsurat opposite Sonam Kapoor. With his old-school good looks, subtle acting, and gentlemanly charm, he became an instant sensation. Kapoor & Sons only cemented his position as Bollywood’s most refined romantic hero. But just as his popularity soared, his Bollywood innings came to a pause. Still, fans haven’t stopped hoping for a comeback.

Mahira Khan followed with Raees, starring opposite none other than Shah Rukh Khan. While she couldn’t promote the film in India, her performance — all eyes, poise, and intensity — spoke volumes. She held her own and looked every bit the classic Bollywood heroine.

Then came Ali Zafar, a true all-rounder who could sing, act, and charm in equal measure. From quirky comedies like Tere Bin Laden to romcoms like Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, he brought an easy-breezy vibe to the big screen — plus a soundtrack of hits that dominated playlists in the early 2010s.

Saba Qamar, meanwhile, wowed critics and audiences alike in Hindi Medium, opposite the late Irrfan Khan. Her turn as a middle-class mom chasing private school dreams was relatable and moving — a reminder that great acting doesn’t need a flashy setup to shine.

Imran Abbas also made a brief appearance in Bollywood, starring in Creature 3D with Bipasha Basu. While the film itself was a mixed bag, his screen presence was undeniable. With the right project, he could’ve gone further.

And of course, what’s a Bollywood story without music? Atif Aslam’s voice became the soundtrack of a generation. “Tera Hone Laga Hoon,” “Jeene Laga Hoon,” “Pehli Nazar Mein” — his songs didn’t just top charts; they ruled hearts. Likewise, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan delivered one soulful hit after another — from “O Re Piya” to “Tere Mast Mast Do Nain” — adding gravitas and timelessness to countless films.

While these stars may have had limited screen time in Bollywood, their talent left a lasting impression. They brought something fresh, graceful, and magnetic — proof that good storytelling and unforgettable performances can come from anywhere.