While names like Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan and Sajal Aly often dominate conversations around Pakistani actors crossing over to Indian cinema, several other performers have quietly delivered impactful work in Bollywood without receiving the same level of mainstream attention. Their performances may not always make headlines today, but they played crucial roles in strengthening cultural and cinematic exchange between the two industries.
Here’s a closer look at seven Pakistani actors whose Indian film journeys deserve more recognition.
Saba Qamar — Hindi Medium (2017)
Saba Qamar’s performance in Hindi Medium remains one of the most critically acclaimed cross-border performances in recent memory. Playing Mita Batra opposite Irrfan Khan, she delivered a nuanced, emotionally grounded portrayal that resonated deeply with Indian audiences.
The film’s massive box office success and enduring popularity elevated Saba’s standing in India, even though she did not pursue further Bollywood projects. Her role continues to be cited as an example of how performance, rather than star power, can transcend borders.
Mawra Hocane — Sanam Teri Kasam (2016)
Mawra Hocane made her Bollywood debut with the romantic drama Sanam Teri Kasamwhich initially underperformed but went on to achieve cult status over the years. Her portrayal of the vulnerable yet strong Saru earned renewed appreciation as the film found a loyal audience on streaming platforms.
Despite appearing in only one Hindi film, Mawra’s popularity in India has grown steadily, proving that a single role can leave a lasting imprint.
Imran Abbas — Creature 3D (2014)
Imran Abbas entered Bollywood with Vikram Bhatt’s Creature 3Dbecoming one of the earliest Pakistani actors to headline an Indian genre film. Though the movie received mixed reviews, Imran’s screen presence and distinct look stood out.
He later appeared in Janisaar (2015), further cementing his crossover credentials during a time when such collaborations were still relatively rare.
Sara Loren — Murder 3 (2013)
Formerly known as Mona Laizza, Sara Loren gained attention in India with Murder 3where she played a mysterious central character in the psychological thriller. The film performed well commercially and introduced her to Indian audiences as a serious performer.
She went on to appear in several Indian projects across languages, making her one of the most consistent Pakistani crossover actors of the 2010s.
Adnan Siddiqui — Mom (2017)
Adnan Siddiqui’s role in Sridevi’s Mom is one of the most understated yet impactful Pakistani performances in Indian cinema. Playing the husband of Sridevi’s character, he brought restraint and emotional depth to a sensitive film that performed well at the box office and critically.
Humaima Malick — King Natwarlal (2014)
Humaima Malick starred opposite Emraan Hashmi in King Natwarlalmarking her Bollywood debut. While the film received mixed reviews, her performance was noted for its confidence and ease.
Her appearance reflected a growing openness in Indian cinema at the time to casting Pakistani actors in mainstream roles.
Ali Zafar — My Brother’s Bride (2011)
Though Ali Zafar later became a familiar name, his early Bollywood success is often underplayed today. My Brother’s Bride was a major hit and established him as a bankable romantic lead in India.
He followed it up with successful films like Chashme Baddoor and Dear Zindagiquietly building a solid Hindi filmography before cross-border collaborations slowed down.
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