In a heartfelt discussion, Khan shared that the intense research and interactions with survivors left him sleepless for nights, and he struggled to process the overwhelming stories he encountered.
“I couldn’t sleep for several nights. I kept writing about what these children go through. Reading the cases was so heavy that I couldn’t shake it off,” he confessed.
The emotional burden was so severe that he took a six-month hiatus, unable to select another project while grappling with the psychological toll of the character.
Khan also shared the complexity of interacting with real-life survivors. “Married women would come to me, sharing their stories.
I thought, ‘I’ve played a negative character, so why are they opening up to me?’ It was overwhelming,” he said, highlighting how deeply the role affected him personally.
Beyond his on screen work, Khan became an ambassador for the Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, aiming to contribute positively to society and advocate for vulnerable children.
His career defining performance in Udaari marked a dramatic departure from his usual chocolate hero roles, portraying a manipulative and deceptive villain whose charm hides sinister intentions.
The role not only sparked national conversation about sensitive social issues but also earned Khan widespread critical acclaim, culminating in the Best TV Actor award at the prestigious Lux Style Awards.
Fans and industry peers praised him for the depth, nuance, and courage he brought to a challenging character, solidifying his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most versatile actors.