Fatima Sana Shaikh, known for her fearless performances on screen, recently opened up about a harrowing real-life experience that left a lasting impact on her. In an interview, she recounted an incident where she was physically assaulted after standing up for herself in public.
She recalled how a man once touched her inappropriately, prompting her to retaliate by hitting him. But the situation quickly turned violent when the man struck her back with such force that she was knocked down. Fatima shared that this moment changed her outlook. Though her reaction was instinctive, the violent response she received made her reconsider how to respond to similar situations. She reflected on the unfortunate reality where victims are forced to think carefully about how to protect themselves, even when they are the ones being wronged.
Fatima also recounted another disturbing encounter during the COVID-19 lockdown. While cycling through Mumbai wearing a mask, she was followed and harassed by a tempo driver who honked and made disturbing noises at her. He continued to trail her until she finally turned into a lane to escape his attention. Sharing her thoughts on gender-based harassment, she expressed a blunt truth, saying that merely being a girl is often enough to become a target.
Through her candid revelations, Fatima brought attention to the emotional and psychological aftermath of such incidents, how survivors carry the weight of fear, caution and reflection even after taking a stand.
On the professional front, Fatima was recently seen in Metro… In Dino, directed by Anurag Basu and starring opposite Ali Fazal. The film received appreciation for its emotional storytelling. Her latest release, Aap Jaisa Koi, now streaming on Netflix, features her alongside R. Madhavan in a mature love story that portrays a woman who asserts her voice within a conservative setting, standing up for both herself and her relationship.
Fatima’s experience underscores a painful truth about the everyday challenges women faces and her courage in speaking up highlights the strength it takes not just to endure but to continue moving forward.
