Actor Mahira Khan has rejected years-old rumours of a rivalry with Saba Qamar, calling the narrative “manufactured” and a reflection of how prominent women are routinely pitted against each other.

Discussions about tension between the two started in 2019 when Saba was featured on The Munshi Show.

When asked about her connection with Mahira, she said, “We are not friends,” a statement that ignited online speculation despite the fact that the two have never worked together or engaged with each other.

Saba then clarified that they had no issues with each other, and both were succeeding in their separate careers.

Speaking at an event promoting her upcoming film Neelofar, Mahira said, “I’m not being diplomatic, I think Saba is a brilliant actress.”

She added that she has a small circle within the industry and that the idea of tension between them is part of a larger mindset.

“We underestimate what two powerful women can do together,” she said. “If we ever collaborate, it could be great work.

But the moment people see two successful women, they pit them against each other, and it benefits everyone except them.”

The two actors have now openly rejected the rumours, effectively shutting down the conversation.

However, the episode emphasises how rapidly speculation can overshadow the genuine efforts and accomplishments of women in the entertainment field.