Saif Ali Khan’s attack: How safe are our Bollywood stars?

As Mumbai claims to be one of the safest cities, but it does have a history of underworld. Our financial capital which is home to several celebrities, Bollywood, is under threat. And it isn’t new. The difference between the haves and have nots is huge in this city. Is the attack culture on actors back in Mumbai? Why is there so much social media coverage on the personal lives of the actor?

“It forces us to reconsider what truly matters and what changes we must make, particularly when it comes to media toxicity,” says Meghna Pant, a writer and resident of the city. By blurring the lines between privacy, respect, and safety, it fosters a culture that reduces individuals to mere commodities for public consumption. Meghna Pant explains that the media must examine its role in creating an intrusive and harmful environment for public figures. “For instance, why does every Indian know Saif’s exact address? Why are we privy to details about where celebrities’ children attend birthday parties? Why is there constant coverage of celebrities’ personal lives, even when it’s neither necessary nor wanted?”

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Social media and YouTubers are hugely responsible for this situation and that has become more like gossip journalism today. One will be appalled to see the huge number of people gathered near Lilavati hospital to take bytes. Are they seriously concerned about Saif Ali Khan’s health?

This unwelcome invasion into their private spaces points to a wider societal issue, where the boundaries of decency continue to be eroded. Meghan adds, “Public figures deserve protection, not heightened vulnerability, because of their fame. The blame for this incident lies squarely with toxic fandom, and the media must take a long, hard look at their role in perpetuating this culture.”

Though this isn’t a new thing, actors such as Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Govinda and Akshay Kumar had received threats and extortion demands from criminal syndicates in the past. Many producers and directors had also been targeted in the past.

How safe is Mumbai?

Mumbai is considered to be one of the safest cities in India. But first the threat to Salam Khan’s life and now Saif Ali Khan being stabbed, it makes us question safety of this hyped up city with skyrocketing rent and expenses.

However, Meghna says, “I have lived in Mumbai for 35 years and have never felt threatened in terms of safety or security, aside from a few minor molestation incidents. I’ve driven alone at 4 a.m., worn short dresses, bold makeup, used public transport, and confidently occupied public spaces—none of which have made me feel unsafe. Despite being a woman and an outsider (I’m Pahadi, not Maharashtrian), Mumbai remains the safest city in India for me, and it’s the only place I can truly call home.”