Sanjeeda Shaikh is basking in the afterglow of critical acclaim for her role as Waheeda in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's opulent web series, Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar. Holding her own amongst a powerhouse cast, including Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Richa Chadha, she delivered a performance that captivated audiences and critics alike. However, beyond the glitz and glamour, Sanjeeda recently opened up about a disturbing experience that left her shaken. Heeramandi: Sanjeeda Shaikh Reveals How It Was 'Challenging' Yet 'Fun' to Play Waheeda in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Series.

In a candid interview, she revealed a past incident of being groped by a woman in a nightclub. "I remember one incident very vaguely but it was by a girl. I was in a nightclub. One girl was passing by and she just touched my breast and she left. I was kind of taken aback, like what just happened," she told Hauterrfly. Heeramandi Review: Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha Deliver Career-Best Performances in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Grandiose But Drawn-Out Netflix Series (LatestLY Exclusive).

Elaborating on the same incident, she further added, "We have always heard that boys touch you from behind and all, but ladkiyaan bhi koi kam nahi hain (some girls are no less). If you are going on the wrong track, gender does not come into play. Wrong is wrong. Call out even if a woman is wrong, playing the victimhood card is very unattractive."

Indeed, Sanjeeda's courage in speaking up against harassment sheds light on this complex issue and emphasises the importance of personal space and respect, regardless of gender. FYI,  before Heeramandi, Sanjeeda had showcased her versatility in Hrithik Roshan-starrer Fighter. There, she portrayed Saanchi Gill, wife of the air force officer played by Karan Singh Grover. But Sanjeeda isn't resting on her laurels. Buzz suggests her next project is the highly anticipated Kun Faya Kun.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 03, 2024 04:30 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).