Sanjeeda Shaikh, a well-known figure in Indian entertainment, initially made her mark in television soap operas before transitioning to films, notably debuting in the 2016 movie “Taish” alongside Harshvarddhan Rane. With over two decades in the industry, she recently featured in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar.”
Sanjeeda Shaikh says she was not offered roles for being ‘too pretty’
Shaikh confessed during a candid exchange on News18 Showsha, discussing her character ‘Waheeda’ in “Heeramandi,” that she had been typecast as “too pretty.” Responding to inquiries about beauty-related insecurities, she admitted feeling insecure about her looks when roles were denied to her on account of her beauty:
“I did feel insecure about being pretty when I did not get the role. There were times when they would say that you are ‘too pretty’, so you won’t be getting this part.”
Reaction to Shaikh’s Remarks:
Watch the video here:
A segment of Shaikh’s interview made rounds on Reddit, prompting various reactions from users. One user commented, “Even models and Miss World contestants struggle in Bollywood.” Another noted, “It’s curious how even actresses like Kriti Sanon and Dia Mirza have echoed similar sentiments… oddly, Aishwarya Rai has never spoken in this vein. She exudes confidence with humility.” Another user added, “She’s fair, but not exceptionally beautiful.”
While Shaikh is enjoying professional success, her personal life has faced challenges, notably her divorce from Amir Ali in 2021. In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, she emphasized her preference for privacy, highlighting the support she receives from her daughter:
“I am not somebody who would talk about every small thing on social media or call the media home and talk about what is happening in my life. I have my people to talk about; I don’t need cameras for that. I have my family: my mother, my brother, and my daughter. My daughter is too young, but today, she is a four-year-old who understands everything. My child has been a blessing in my life and has given me so much strength.”
Shaikh also addressed the departure of former friends during a difficult period in her life, expressing gratitude for the lessons learned:
“There are people who aren’t my friends anymore. I should just send love to them for not being in my life anymore because I am better without them. I am so happy now. These are the experiences in life that teaches you. You don’t need so many people. It’s good what they did to me.”
What are your thoughts on Sanjeeda Shaikh’s assertions regarding her career setbacks due to her appearance.