Buzz is, it was SRK's decision to kick off the promotions in the UAE before heading for the India tour. A source informs that Mahira was spotted at Dubai's Mall of the Emirates a couple of days ago, while another adds, "Mahira will join Shah Rukh and Rahul at the Bollywood Amusement Park in Dubai. Over the two-day promotional schedule, they will also visit malls and interact with the local media." The duo had earlier even shot for a song in the Middle East.
Responding to questions pertaining to the ban of Pakistani artistes in India following the 2016 Uri attacks, Mahira had stated to a local channel across the border, "I feel bad. When you put so much effort and hard work in a project, you wish to see the results. The film is very special."
In order to facilitate a smooth release of their film, SRK along with producer Ritesh Sidhwani had earlier visited Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray. Through the hour-long discussion, Thackeray had reportedly agreed on the condition that Mahira wouldn't fly down to India for the promotions. Talking about her absence, director Rahul Dholakia had earlier stated, "We do miss Mahira a lot and she is an integral part of the film. But in such a scenario, there is nothing that's left to be done. She had come down to Mumbai a few years ago and executed the audition scenes beautifully." The production house refused to comment.