Manahil Malik – Rising Star or One-Hit Wonder?

May 2, 2025 Ayanskipper

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Manahil Malik is a name that has been buzzing across Pakistan’s social media scene for years. From her catchy dance videos to her lip-sync performances, she has captured the attention of millions on TikTok and Instagram. With her bold style and confident persona, Manahil has become one of Pakistan’s most recognized influencers. But her journey hasn’t been without challenges. In 2024, she faced a massive controversy that shook her fanbase and raised questions about her future. Is Manahil Malik a rising star who will continue to shine, or is she a one-hit wonder whose fame might fade? This article dives into her story, her achievements, the controversies, and what lies ahead, written in simple English for Pakistani readers.

Who is Manahil Malik?

Manahil Malik is a young Pakistani influencer, born in Lahore, who rose to fame through TikTok. She started creating content in her teens, posting dance videos, lip-syncs, and humorous skits. Her vibrant energy and trendy style quickly made her a favorite among young Pakistanis. By 2025, she had millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram, making her one of the country’s top social media stars.

Manahil’s content is relatable. She dances to popular songs like Yo Yo Honey Singh’s “Payal” and performs to Bollywood hits like “Falak Tak” from Tashan. Her videos are fun, colorful, and full of confidence, which is why fans love her. She represents the new generation of Pakistanis who are bold, creative, and unafraid to express themselves online. But being in the spotlight also comes with challenges, as Manahil has learned over the years.

The Rise to Fame

Manahil’s journey began around 2018 when TikTok was gaining popularity in Pakistan. At the time, the app was a new platform for young people to showcase their talents. Manahil saw an opportunity and started posting short, engaging videos. Her dance moves, paired with trending songs, caught the eye of viewers. Soon, her follower count began to grow.

By 2019, she was already a well-known name. A 2019 article by MangoBaaz mentioned her as a rising star with millions of followers, highlighting her ability to connect with fans through her content. Unlike many influencers who focus on one type of content, Manahil experimented with dance, comedy, and even fashion. This versatility helped her stand out in a crowded space.

Her Instagram account, under the handle minahilmalik727, became another platform for her to shine. She posted reels, photos, and stories that gave fans a glimpse into her life. From glamorous outfits to casual looks, Manahil’s style inspired many young girls in Pakistan. She also collaborated with other influencers and brands, which boosted her popularity further.

Achievements and Popularity

Manahil’s success isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the impact she’s had. Here are some of her key achievements:

Massive Following: By 2024, Manahil had millions of followers on TikTok and thousands on Instagram. Her videos regularly got millions of views, with one dance clip to Megan Thee Stallion’s “Mamushi” amassing over 4 million views.
Trendsetter: Manahil is known for starting trends. Her lip-sync to “Payal” and her dance to “Falak Tak” became viral, inspiring other creators to follow suit.
Brand Collaborations: She worked with local and international brands, promoting fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. This showed her influence in the market.
Resilience: Despite facing controversies, Manahil has bounced back multiple times, proving her determination to stay relevant.

Her fans admire her for her confidence and authenticity. Comments on her posts often include messages like, “Stay strong, Minahil, don’t let the negativity get to you” and “Your happiness is what matters, ignore the haters”. This support has been crucial in keeping her motivated.

The 2024 Controversy

In October 2024, Manahil’s career took a hit when a private video allegedly featuring her and her boyfriend went viral. The clip, which reportedly showed intimate moments, sparked a firestorm on social media. Many accused her of leaking the video herself as a publicity stunt, while others trolled her mercilessly. The controversy became a trending topic, with hashtags like “Pakistani TikTok Viral Video” gaining traction.

Manahil quickly responded, claiming the video was fake. In a statement, she said, “These videos are completely fake. I have already filed a complaint with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) against the person responsible, and they will be arrested soon. My family and I are going through a very difficult time”. She urged her fans to report the clip and support her during this challenging period.

However, the backlash was intense. Social media users criticized her, with some calling it a “cheap publicity stunt”. Pakistani actress Mishi Khan added fuel to the fire by suggesting that Manahil might have leaked the video herself, drawing inspiration from the Bollywood movie Heroine, where the protagonist leaks an explicit video for fame. Mishi’s Instagram post, captioned “Shameful to see these influencers stooping to the lowest level for fame & disgracing their families, parents & the society,” went viral, further damaging Manahil’s reputation.

Mishi claimed that in the video, Manahil was heard saying, “If you go anywhere else, I will make it go viral,” which raised suspicions about her intentions. She also questioned why anyone would create a deepfake, arguing that Manahil’s actions seemed deliberate. These accusations made it harder for Manahil to clear her name.

Public Reaction

The public’s response to the controversy was mixed. Some fans stood by Manahil, believing her claim that the video was fake. They left supportive comments like, “Only someone who has no respect for women or doesn’t have a mother or sister at home can do this. I am a witness, and so is my God. I only need your support”. Others, however, were harsh. Critics wrote, “This isn’t the way to handle fame; it’s shameful” and “You’ve let your fans down”.

The controversy wasn’t the first time Manahil faced such issues. A few years earlier, her photos and videos were leaked, but she received strong support from her fans at the time. This history made some people wonder if the 2024 incident was part of a pattern. Was Manahil a victim of privacy breaches, or was she using controversies to stay in the spotlight?

Manahil’s Response and Social Media Break

The trolling and criticism took a toll on Manahil. In November 2024, she announced she was leaving Instagram, writing, “It was not easy for me but I’m done. It’s hard to say goodbye. No fights. Spread love. I’m leaving. I will miss you. I love you. Take care”. Many believed this was the end of her social media career.

During this period, an old dance video of Manahil lip-syncing to “Mamushi” resurfaced and went viral, gaining over 4 million views. This showed that despite the controversy, her content still had a strong appeal. However, Manahil stayed away from posting new content, focusing on dealing with the fallout.

The Comeback

In December 2024, Manahil surprised her fans by returning to social media. In an Instagram story, she reflected on the controversy, saying, “Many people make mistakes, but they only saw my mistakes, not who I really am.” She added, “I don’t care about what others think of me anymore. Many will talk, but I am now the Manahil who is very strong, and their nonsense no longer affects me”.

Her family encouraged her to return, but she noted, “This world won’t let anyone live in peace. Only those with hidden sins are deemed ‘good’”. Manahil’s comeback was bold. She resumed posting on TikTok and Instagram, sharing new dance videos and reels. Her return showed her resilience and determination to move forward.

2025: A New Chapter?

As of April 2025, Manahil is back in the spotlight, but the controversies haven’t fully died down. Another alleged video surfaced, which she again dismissed as AI-generated and fake. This incident reminded everyone of the challenges influencers face in the digital age, where privacy breaches are common.

Despite these setbacks, Manahil continues to create content. Her recent videos show her dancing and lip-syncing with the same energy that made her famous. She’s also addressing the controversies head-on, asking fans to focus on her work rather than the rumors. Her ability to bounce back has earned her respect from some, but others remain skeptical.

Rising Star or One-Hit Wonder?

So, is Manahil Malik a rising star or a one-hit wonder? Let’s break it down.

Case for Rising Star

Strong Fanbase: Manahil’s millions of followers show that she has a loyal audience. Even after controversies, her videos get millions of views, proving her popularity.
Versatility: She’s not limited to one type of content. From dance to comedy to fashion, Manahil’s ability to adapt keeps her relevant.
Resilience: Facing multiple controversies and coming back stronger is no small feat. Her December 2024 comeback showed her determination to stay in the game.
Cultural Impact: Manahil represents the modern Pakistani youth. Her bold style and confidence inspire many, especially young women.
Brand Value: Her collaborations with brands show that companies see her as a valuable influencer, even after controversies.

Case for One-Hit Wonder

Controversy Dependency: Some argue that Manahil’s fame relies on controversies. The 2024 video leak kept her in the news, but it also damaged her reputation.
Trust Issues: Accusations from figures like Mishi Khan have made some fans question her authenticity. If people believe she leaked her own videos, it could hurt her credibility.
Privacy Challenges: Repeated leaks, whether real or fake, make it hard for Manahil to maintain a positive image. If these incidents continue, fans might lose interest.
Competition: Pakistan’s influencer scene is growing, with new faces emerging daily. Manahil needs to keep innovating to stay ahead.
Social Media Risks: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be unpredictable. A ban or algorithm change could affect her reach.

What’s Next for Manahil?

Manahil’s future depends on how she navigates the challenges ahead. Here are some possibilities:

Focusing on Positive Content: By creating more family-friendly and inspiring content, Manahil could rebuild her reputation. Promoting Pakistani culture, fashion, or social causes could help her connect with a broader audience.
Expanding Platforms: While TikTok and Instagram are her main platforms, she could explore YouTube or other apps to diversify her presence.
Addressing Controversies: Being transparent about past incidents and focusing on her growth could win back skeptical fans.
Collaborations: Working with respected influencers or celebrities could boost her credibility and introduce her to new audiences.
Personal Growth: Manahil’s comeback showed a more mature side. If she continues to share her journey honestly, she could inspire others.

The Bigger Picture: Influencers in Pakistan

Manahil’s story reflects the challenges faced by influencers in Pakistan. Social media has given young people a platform to shine, but it also exposes them to criticism and privacy breaches. Other influencers, like Imsha Rehman, have faced similar issues, with leaked videos leading to trolling and hate. This highlights the need for better online privacy laws and support for digital creators.

In Pakistan, influencers are often held to high moral standards. While Manahil’s dance videos are loved by many, some see them as too bold, leading to judgment. The 2024 controversy, whether real or fake, sparked debates about fame, morality, and the role of influencers in society. As Mishi Khan said, “People look up to you, so stop promoting this behavior. Our society is already suffering from moral decay”. These expectations put extra pressure on stars like Manahil.

Lessons from Manahil’s Journey

Manahil’s story offers valuable lessons for aspiring influencers and fans:

Privacy Matters: Protect your personal content and be cautious about what you share online.
Resilience is Key: Criticism and controversies are part of fame. Staying strong and learning from mistakes is crucial.
Authenticity Wins: Fans connect with real, relatable people. Being honest about your journey builds trust.
Adapt and Grow: The social media world changes fast. Keep experimenting and evolving to stay relevant.
Support Matters: A loyal fanbase can make all the difference during tough times.

Conclusion

Manahil Malik is a complex figure—a talented influencer with a massive following, but also someone who’s faced significant challenges. Her journey from a TikTok star to a controversial name shows the highs and lows of fame in the digital age. While some see her as a rising star with the potential to grow, others wonder if her controversies will overshadow her talent.

As of May 2025, Manahil is back and stronger than ever, but her future is uncertain. Will she continue to innovate and inspire, or will the weight of controversies hold her back? Only time will tell. For now, she remains a symbol of the modern Pakistani youth—bold, creative, and unafraid to face the world, flaws and all.

For Pakistani readers, Manahil’s story is a reminder of the power and pitfalls of social media. Whether you’re a fan or a critic, her journey shows that fame comes at a cost, but with determination, anyone can rise above challenges. So, what do you think—will Manahil Malik shine as a rising star, or is she destined to be a one-hit wonder? The answer lies in the choices she makes next.