Why was Mahira Khan chosen for Raees? This question has intrigued many fans since the film’s release in 2017. As the Pakistani actress made her Bollywood debut alongside Shah Rukh Khan, the decision to cast her raised curiosity. Director Rahul Dholakia had a unique vision for the character of Aasiya, which led to Mahira securing the coveted role. Here's how Mahira Khan landed the lead role in one of the year's biggest Bollywood releases.
Rahul Dholakia’s Search for the Perfect Aasiya
The key reason why Mahira Khan was chosen for Raees lies in director Rahul Dholakia’s desire to find an actress who could embody a Muslim woman from the 1980s. Dholakia was clear that the role required maturity, innocence, and a specific linguistic blend of Hindi and Urdu. Popular Bollywood actresses like Kareena Kapoor and Deepika Padukone were considered but ultimately rejected due to either financial constraints or a mismatch with the role’s requirements. Dholakia needed someone who could balance Shah Rukh Khan's charisma, and Mahira fit that bill perfectly after casting director Honey Trehan arranged an audition.
