ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Bollywood actress *Fatima Sana Shaikh* has spoken out about what she describes as systemic inequality in the Indian film industry, particularly towards supporting actors. In a candid interview, the Dangal star reflected on the “second-class” status experienced by performers who don’t play lead roles.
“When You’re Not the Hero, You’re Made to Feel Lesser”
Sharing her personal journey through the ranks of Bollywood, Fatima revealed that actors in supporting roles often face marginalization and are treated with noticeably less respect on set.
“When you’re not the hero, you’re often made to feel lesser. Main actors are given all the importance, while character artists like myself are kept on the sidelines,”
— Fatima Sana Shaikh
The actress, who has been vocal about the industry’s hierarchical structure, reiterated that her experience in smaller roles exposed her to Bollywood’s deep-rooted *nepotism* and power imbalance.
“I have done small roles and character parts. I have experienced firsthand how stark the difference is in the way we are treated. It’s 100 percent true — this industry is built on nepotism,” she added.
A Personal Stand Against Disrespect
Fatima emphasized that her own experience has shaped how she treats others in the industry. She makes a point to extend courtesy and kindness to newcomers, regardless of their role size.
“If a new actor is present on set, I go out of my way to treat them with respect. I don’t want them to feel what I once felt. There’s no reason to belittle someone for their position,” she said.
On-Set Power Plays: “Some Want to Own Every Scene”
When asked about uncomfortable experiences with co-stars, Fatima didn’t hold back. While she clarified that she hasn’t received direct insults, she noted that some actors try to dominate scenes unnecessarily.
“There are people who want to be the centre of every scene, even when the scene isn’t about them. That really takes away the spirit of the moment — it makes the scene lifeless,” she explained.
She went on to describe such behavior as not only unprofessional but demoralizing for other cast members.
“It’s irritating. When the focus isn’t supposed to be on you, you should step back.”
From Child Artist to Breakthrough Star
Fatima began her film career as a *child actor, featuring in hits like *Ishq and Chachi 420. Though she debuted as a lead in Tihaan (2008), it was her role as *Geeta Phogat* in Aamir Khan’s Dangal (2016) that catapulted her to stardom.
Her co-stars in the wrestling biopic included *Sanya Malhotra, **Zaira Wasim, and the late **Suhani Bhatnagar*.
Upcoming Projects
Fatima is currently gearing up for several new releases, including Metro In Dino, Gustaakh Ishq, and Aap Jesa Koi Nahi, as she continues to make her mark in an industry she describes as both rewarding and deeply flawed.
