‘I Was Made To Feel Small’ Metro In Dino Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh Says NEPOTISM Exists In Every Industry, Is She Justifying?

Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh is making headlines for her upcoming film Metro In Dino, which releases next month. In a new interview, she opened up about her early days in Bollywood, where she says she was treated unfairly and often sidelined.

Speaking to Humans of Bombay, Fatima shared how actors in smaller roles are often made to feel invisible. She said, “It hundred percent happens, nepotism exists in every industry. I have played main characters, I have played small characters, I’ve experienced the difference.”

Fatima Sana Shaikh On The Nepotism Experience

Before Dangal made her a star in 2016, Fatima had been acting since childhood in films like Ishq and Chachi 420. But even with years of experience, she says the industry often treated her like she didn’t belong. In one case, a co-star even tried to take the camera focus from her during a scene.

Instead of reacting with bitterness, Fatima used those moments to shape how she treats others on set today. She said, “That’s my responsibility. I don’t want anybody to experience what I have. In instances where I’ve been made to feel small, I don’t want to do the same to others. It’s unnecessary to be badtameez (mannerless) to people”

On The “Fatima Vs Sanya” Buzz

She also addressed the media's obsession with comparing her to co-actor Sanya Malhotra, especially because they both starred in Dangal. “That’s always there. People want to show ‘Fatima vs. Sania’ because it’s an Aamir Khan movie. Toba toba toba! I was almost dead!” she said jokingly.

Fatima laughed off the most ridiculous rumour she’s heard about herself: “That I was dating Sanya!”

Fatima Sana Shaikh On Money Myths In Bollywood

Fatima also busted one major misconception about actors. She said, “That actors can also be poor. People think all actors are rich. But that’s not true. Not every role leads to luxury."

She pointed out that the demanding role in Dangal, where she gained weight and chopped her hair, was rare. "These roles are rare. Anyone can do heroine roles. Not everyone can do these.”

Fatima will be seen next in Metro In Dino, which hits theatres on July 4. The film features a strong ensemble cast including Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Pankaj Tripathi, Neena Gupta, and Anupam Kher.

She also has Gustaakh Ishq and Aap Jaisa Koi lined up.