'Feminism isn't male-bashing': Fatima Sana Shaikh clarifies misconceptions
What's the story
Ahead of her upcoming film Gustaakh Ishq, actor Fatima Sana Shaikh has spoken out about the real meaning of feminism. In an interview with Zoom, she said that the biggest issue today is misinformation, especially among men who dismiss feminism without understanding it. She also clarified that feminism has never been about "male-bashing."
Feminism explained
Shaikh's insights on feminism and male perceptions
Shaikh said, "There was a meme going around recently, where a person would go up to some men and ask them if they are feminists." Then the men would reply, "No, no, I'm not a feminist." "Then the person will ask, 'What are you?', 'Just, we are not feminist.'" Shaikh added, "So it's just that people don't understand the meaning of that word. It's as simple as that."
Film insights
Shaikh's experience with 'Dhak Dhak' and male perspectives
Shaikh also reflected on her experience with Dhak Dhak, a film praised for its understanding of womanhood. She pointed out that the movie was written by a man, director Tarun Dudeja. "So it's written by a man, this whole film actually. So it's nice," she said. Gustaakh Ishq, directed by Vibhu Puri and co-starring Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah, and Sharib Hashmi, will release on November 28, 2025.