Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan recently made headlines as an old interview resurfaced where he disclosed the discrimination he faced while house hunting in India due to his Muslim identity. The actor, currently hospitalized after surviving a violent burglary attempt, had opened up about the challenges of finding a home in certain Mumbai neighborhoods.
Discrimination in Housing
In the interview, Saif revealed the difficulties Muslims face in securing housing in India. He recounted being told explicitly that certain areas in Juhu, a prominent suburb of Mumbai, did not sell flats to Muslims.
“You try to buy a flat as a Muslim in Juhu, and everyone will say that they don’t sell flats to Muslims,” Saif shared, highlighting the prejudice entrenched in some parts of Indian society.
While Saif did not regard the issue as a personal grievance, he acknowledged its broader implications, saying, “It’s not a big deal, but it’s also not a good thing.”
The actor also noted the existing religious tensions in India, drawing comparisons to other types of conflicts. “If a man fights his wife, two brothers fight each other, and two countries fight each other, then two religions can also clash. It’s not a big deal. Peace and understanding are unusual,” he remarked.
Burglary Incident Brings Focus
The interview gained renewed attention as Saif battles for recovery after being stabbed during a burglary attempt at his home in the early hours of Thursday. Reports indicate that Saif sustained multiple injuries while trying to fend off the attacker, identified as Mohammad Sharif ul Islam, a Bangladeshi immigrant.
Sharif ul Islam was apprehended in Thane after an intense police search. The actor underwent surgery and remains in stable condition, with movement regained in his limbs.
Public Reactions
The revelations from the resurfaced interview have sparked conversations about religious discrimination in India, especially regarding housing. Fans and supporters have expressed outrage over the unfair treatment faced by individuals based on their faith, urging societal introspection.
As Saif Ali Khan continues to recover from his injuries, his experience sheds light on the persistent challenges of religious biases and the urgent need for inclusivity in modern India.
