Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor came out in support of Mahira Khan after the pictures of the two surfaced early this week, leading to the Pakistani actress being criticised by her fans.

Recent images emerged in which Mahira, in a white dress, was spotted with Ranbir Kapoor in New York. The pictures were taken in July when Ranbir was filming for Sanjay Dutt's biopic.

Celebrities come out in support of Mahira Khan after picture controversy

Ali Zafar, Osman Khalid Butt, Momina Mustehsan bash critics after Mahira's pictures with Ranbir went viral

Immediately after the images were released some fans expressed their dismay over them.

"I've gotten to know Mahira in a personal capacity over the last few months. She is somebody who I admire and respect, for her achievements and even more for the person she is. It is very unfair the way she is being judged and spoken about. What is also sad is the inequality in judgment just because she is a woman. I request you to stop the negativity and move on with your beautiful god gifted lives. Peace and love," Indian media reported him saying. 

Many Pakistani celebrities stepped in and spoke in favour of the Ho Mann Jahaan actress.

In a handwritten note, singer Ali Zafar wrote ?every woman has the right to make her own choices in life (as long as she?s not hurting anyone). Just like men do.?

Actor and comedian Osman Khalid Butt turned the tables to point towards the hypocrisy in the society, posing with a friend with a cigarette in a similar pose as Mahira and Ranbir.

Singing sensation Momina Mustehsan threw in her own two cents: ?Jesus. Can we please give @TheMahiraKhan a break?! Why are we so quick to judge and attack?! Esp if it's a woman in question. It's her life!?