Fatima Sana Shaikh on Bollywood Roles: Seeking Depth Beyond Stereotypes

Fatima Sana Shaikh, known for her powerful performance in the acclaimed film *Dangal*, has opened up about the challenges she faces as an actress in Bollywood. She feels that many of the “strong female lead” roles offered to her fall into stereotypical portrayals.

Beyond the “Angry Woman” Trope

After the success of *Dangal*, Shaikh received numerous offers. While grateful for the opportunities, she found herself hesitant to accept roles that simply depicted women as aggressive and man-hating. She expresses a desire to portray more complex characters with genuine depth, moving beyond the one-dimensional “angry woman” trope.

The Search for Nuance

Shaikh believes that strength and empowerment can be expressed in various ways, and she’s actively looking for roles that explore these nuances. Her desire to portray relatable and multi-faceted female characters reflects a broader conversation about representation in the film industry.