Mahira Khan Expecting Second Child at 41, Opens Up on Pregnancy After 17 Years: ‘Definitely More Challenging’

Pakistani actor Mahira Khan has entered an eventful new chapter in her life, celebrating an international career milestone while preparing to become a mother for the second time.

The 41-year-old actor recently revealed her pregnancy while attending the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026, where her baby bump and striking traditional look quickly drew attention. Mahira is already mother to her 17-year-old son Azlan, whom she shares with former husband Ali Askari. Her second baby will be her first child with husband Salim Karim, whom she married in October 2023.

But beyond the celebration surrounding the announcement, Mahira has also spoken candidly about something deeply personal just how different pregnancy feels at 41 compared with her first experience in her 20s.

‘Definitely more challenging’

Speaking about her second pregnancy, Mahira Khan said the experience has been considerably different this time, both physically and emotionally.

She was 24 during her first pregnancy. Now, 17 years later, she says she is approaching motherhood as a very different woman.

The actor described this pregnancy as physically more demanding and said there are days when her body cannot keep pace with everything her mind wants her to accomplish. That adjustment is particularly noticeable for someone accustomed to constantly working, travelling and managing a busy schedule.

Her comments have resonated because they offer a more personal glimpse into pregnancy later in life, beyond the glamorous photographs accompanying her TIFF appearance.

Mahira Khan’s memorable TIFF appearance

Mahira’s appearance at TIFF 2026 was significant for more than one reason.

The actor wore an elaborate hand-embroidered wine chiffon sari by Aafrinish by Niazi, featuring traditional Kashidakari, Cutdana and silver Zari work. The sari incorporated intricate floral and paisley detailing in ivory and cream tones and was paired with a contrasting teal element.

The craftsmanship behind the ensemble also attracted considerable attention, turning the outfit into a celebration of traditional South Asian embroidery on an international platform.

Mahira’s TIFF visit also marked an important professional moment. She participated in the festival’s programming and was honoured for her contribution to cinema.

From ‘Raees’ to a new chapter of motherhood

For Indian audiences, Mahira Khan remains widely recognised for starring opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Raees. She is also one of Pakistan’s most prominent television and film actors, with projects including Humsafar, Sadqay Tumhare, Bin Roye, Superstar and The Legend of Maula Jatt.

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Her second pregnancy comes nearly three years after her marriage to businessman Salim Karim.

Mahira had earlier shared a photograph showing her baby bump alongside a simple message reflecting on how life can take unexpected turns: “We make plans and then there is ALLAH’S plan.”

How can pregnancy after 40 be different?

Mahira’s experience has also brought attention to the broader conversation around pregnancy after 40.

Medical guidance generally treats maternal age as one of several factors considered during pregnancy. Compared with younger pregnancies, advancing maternal age is associated with increased risks of certain complications, which is why individual medical assessment and appropriate prenatal monitoring become particularly important.

The risks can include gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, chromosomal abnormalities, premature delivery and some placental or fetal-growth complications. However, age alone does not determine how an individual pregnancy will progress, and many women over 40 have healthy pregnancies and babies with appropriate care.

For women planning pregnancy later in life, doctors commonly recommend discussing existing medical conditions, medications, nutrition and other individual risk factors with a qualified healthcare professional.

A personal milestone on a global stage

For Mahira Khan, TIFF 2026 has consequently become more than another appearance at an international film festival.

It brought together two important moments recognition of her career on a global platform and the beginning of another chapter of motherhood.

At 24, Mahira says she approached pregnancy with a certain innocence. At 41, she is experiencing it with a different understanding of her body, responsibilities and life.

And while she acknowledges that the journey has been “definitely more challenging,” her public appearance at TIFF showed her embracing that change while continuing to celebrate her career.