13th October 2023,Mumbai: Dhak Dhak, which hit the big screens today, tells the story of four ordinary women from diverse backgrounds who embark on a bike ride, leading them to self-discovery and the importance of sisterhood during their journey. The slice-of-life drama features a talented cast including Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, Fatima Sana Sheikh, and Sanjana Sanghi in the lead roles. Recently Fatima Sana Shaikh heaped praise on the film’s producer Taapsee Pannu and opened up on how she had faith in her even though Fatima is not an “A-listed” actor.
Regarding Taapsee Pannu, Fatima Sana Shaikh
Fatima Sana Shaikh highlighted that Dhak Dhak was a meaningful and worthwhile experience for her during a recent interview with News18. She admits that she has little influence over how financially successful her films are, but she feels fortunate to have Taapsee Pannu as a producer who decided to collaborate with her on Dhak Dhak. She stated: “Finding individuals who have faith in actors who aren’t A-listed stars can be challenging. While these actors might be talented, they aren’t considered A-listers, and that’s a fact. Making a film with an A-listed actor is a different scenario because it attracts more attention.”
She went on to say, “However, it’s commendable when a producer and director follow their instincts, have faith in us, and believe that we can pull it off. It gives actors like me hope that films like this can also be made with me in such roles.”
Fatima Sana Shaikh discusses her bicycle riding experiences at Dhak Dhak
Fatima Sana Shaikh learnt how to ride a motorcycle “very early” in life, in contrast to the rest of the actors who had to train before shooting. She was able to embrace her love of outdoor activities, but it wasn’t a completely enjoyable experience for her either.
She admitted that because of the actions of many males on her bike rides, she had experienced eve teasing and felt apprehensive.
She mentioned, “I noticed that female bikers often encounter issues. When I used to ride, I observed people making inappropriate comments and competing with me for no reason. I’m not sure why it boosted their egos or why it bothered them so much. They would race against me to prove they could ride faster. I would simply allow them to pass.”
She also disclosed that a stranger had once followed her during a practice session. “I rememberl a situation where a man was following me and my trainer. We inquired, ‘Uncle, aap kahaan ja rahe ho? (Uncle, where are you going) We were concerned he might follow us home. It seems some men feel their masculinity is challenged when they witness a woman riding a bike.”
Today marks the release of Dhak Dhak, which stars Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, Fatima Sana Sheikh, and Sanjana Sanghi in the key roles.
By Vaishnavi Rastogi