LONDON: Pakistani superstar Mahira Khan met King Charles at the British Asian Trust Annual Dinner and Reception in London, where she praised his efforts to support mental health initiatives in Pakistan.
The event, held at The Peninsula London, brought together more than 300 guests, including celebrities, philanthropists and supporters of charitable projects across South Asia.
Speaking to the media after the event, Mahira Khan said it was encouraging to see the British monarch actively supporting causes such as mental health through the British Asian Trust.
“People still feel ashamed even to talk about mental health,” she said. “Many believe that visiting a psychiatrist means they are ‘mad’, but that mindset needs to change. We must create more awareness about mental health.”
The actress stressed that mental health conditions should be treated like any other illness.
“Just as cancer and arthritis are illnesses, mental health conditions are also illnesses and deserve proper attention and care,” she said.
As Mahira Khan meets King Charles, she said the King was aware of her role as a mental health ambassador and appreciated his continued involvement with the British Asian Trust.
“It is a big thing that King Charles attends British Asian Trust events,” she said. “He knew that I am a mental health ambassador.”
Mahira Khan also spoke about broader social issues, saying violence and harassment against women should never be tolerated. She urged more men to speak out and take a stand against violence targeting women.
King Charles serves as the Royal Founding Patron of the British Asian Trust, which works in several areas, including education, child protection, livelihoods, conservation and mental health.
The event was attended by prominent figures from the British Asian community and featured a performance by international recording artist Jay Sean.
British Asian Trust CEO Hitan Mehta said the King’s longstanding support continues to inspire the organisation’s work across South Asia. He added that the charity’s impact is made possible through the commitment and generosity of the British Asian diaspora and its partners.
The evening raised more than £1 million to support the Trust’s charitable programmes across the region.