LONDON: Pakistani actor Mahira Khan has emphasized the need to strengthen mental health awareness in Pakistan during a high-profile British Asian Trust Annual Dinner attended by King Charles III and leading figures from the South Asian diaspora.
The event, held at The Peninsula London and attended by more than 300 guests, focused on the charity’s ongoing work across South Asia in areas including mental health, education, child protection, and livelihoods.
Speaking to media after meeting King Charles, who serves as the Royal Founding Patron of the British Asian Trust, Mahira Khan said stigma around mental health in Pakistan remains a major barrier to treatment and public understanding.
She said mental health conditions should be treated as medical illnesses like any other, and stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.
The actor, who serves as a mental health ambassador for the British Asian Trust, highlighted collaborative initiatives between the organisation and Pakistani media partners aimed at promoting awareness on psychological wellbeing.
King Charles attended the annual reception alongside philanthropists, celebrities, and representatives of the British Asian community. The British Asian Trust described his continued engagement as a key factor supporting its work across South Asia.
The evening also featured cultural performances and fundraising activities, with the organisation announcing that more than £1 million was raised to support its programmes.
Organisers said the funds will contribute to ongoing projects in mental health, education, and child welfare across the region.
Other notable attendees included public figures from film, television, and music industries, reflecting the event’s focus on diaspora engagement and cross-cultural partnerships.