Mahira Khan lauds King Charles at London charity event
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistani superstar Mahira Khan has praised King Charles for his support of mental health initiatives in Pakistan through the British Asian Trust, describing the work as vital in raising awareness about psychological wellbeing.
Speaking to media in London after attending the British Asian Trust Annual Dinner and Reception at The Peninsula London, Mahira Khan said she was honoured to meet King Charles, the Royal Founding Patron of the organisation, and appreciated his continued commitment to social causes across South Asia.
The annual event brought together more than 300 guests, including celebrities, philanthropists, and prominent figures from the British Asian community.
Mahira Khan, who serves as a mental health ambassador for the British Asian Trust, highlighted the importance of breaking stigma around mental illness in Pakistan. She said many people still hesitate to seek professional help due to social taboos.
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“People still feel ashamed even to talk about mental health. They say, why should we go to a psychiatrist, we are not mad,” she said, adding that mental health conditions should be treated like any other medical illness.
She emphasized that awareness is crucial, noting that conditions such as depression and anxiety deserve the same recognition and care as physical illnesses like cancer or arthritis.
The actor also praised the British Asian Trust for its collaborative work in Pakistan in partnership with Geo TV and Jang Group to promote mental health awareness.
“It is a big thing that King Charles attends British Asian Trust events. He knew that I am a mental health ambassador,” she said.
The event focused on the Trust’s charitable work across South Asia in areas including education, livelihoods, child protection, conservation, and mental health. Guests included Sanjeev Bhaskar OBE, Dame Meera Syal, Kunal Nayyar, Gurinder Chadha, Naughty Boy, and others, with a performance by singer Jay Sean.
According to organisers, the evening raised over £1 million to support ongoing initiatives of the British Asian Trust.
