Filmmaker Sajid Khan, who faced sexual harassment allegations from multiple women during the 2018 MeToo movement, has shared that he struggled deeply with thoughts of "ending his life" numerous times over the last six years.
The 54-year-old director discussed the immense physical and emotional strain the accusations have placed on him. However, he expressed hope and resilience, revealing that he is now focusing on "getting back on his feet" and slowly working through his challenges. Khan's journey reflects his determination to overcome personal hardships and rebuild his life.
In a conversation with HT City, Sajid Khan known for his film Heyy Babyy said, "I thought of ending my life many times in the last 6 years. It’s been extremely bad, in the sense that I’ve been out of work, despite getting a clearance from the Indian Film and Television Directors Association (IFTDA). I’m trying to get back on my feet."
After the MeToo allegations, Sajid Khan was replaced by Farhad Samji as the director of Housefull 4. The accusations significantly impacted his career, leading to a loss of work opportunities. This forced him to sell his house and move into a rented apartment.
Sajid Khan admitted that he previously relied on "offensive humor," thinking that "offense is the best defense." However, he now asserts that he has become more restrained in his approach.
"I’ve learned the hard way. I never disrespected women, and I never will. My mother raised me to believe in gender equality. I didn’t realise my words would make me pay such a huge price," he added.
Sajid Khan recalled how he hid the truth from his mother, Menaka Irani, for 10 days when he had to step down from Housefull 4, as he wanted to protect her health from the shock.
"I was worried she’d have a heart attack if she found out. I told Farah (my sister) to hide the newspapers from her. For 10 days, I pretended everything was fine, leaving the house and coming back as if I’d been on set... I’ve never, and will never, say anything against any woman. But yes, the last six years have been a period of self-assessment," he said.
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Menaka Irani passed away in 2024 after a prolonged illness, and Sajid Khan believes that the stress of worrying about him played a role in her deteriorating health and eventual death.
"She didn’t just pass away due to illness. She was also weighed down by the mental stress of worrying about me. I feel like I let her down in some way. But now, I just want to move forward with my life," he expressed.
Sajid Khan, known for directing films such as Heyy Babyy, Darna Zaroori Hai, and Himmatwala, hinted at a possible return to direction with an upcoming project.
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