I started auditioning but at times would feel depressed, as I would get shortlisted but never received the final call. Only when the commercials were released would I come to know that I was not selected. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
When such acting powerhouses take note of your work and express their appreciation, it is an overwhelming feeling. I could not believe it when Rishi ji tweeted. Then Amitji and Rekha ma’am sent handwritten letters, which I have read more than fifty times. ‘Dangal’ is a very special film for me, and these are my lifetime treasure. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I auditioned 5-6 times for ‘Dangal.’ I was just waiting for the final call, as there were about 15-16 girls who auditioned for the role. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
When you are doing a long scene, you have dialogue and interaction to narrate the character. But making sense out of facial expression and reacting is difficult. Having said that, I think such challenges are good for learning. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I faced many ups and downs, like any other actor: not getting through auditions or even worse – getting shortlisted and not being selected. Most actors go through the process. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
Although I started off as a child artist, I left acting in between, as I felt that I was missing the fun of school days. But a little later, I became keen on acting again and started going for auditions. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I was not getting work, even after auditioning for films. So I started working in a studio as a photographer; I assisted a cinematographer for two ads. I was thinking that I will get into photography or cinematography or assist someone. But then the ‘Dangal’ offer came, and I was busy with the auditions. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I have always been a movie buff and had no interest in any games and sports. I do not even watch cricket, which is one of the favourite games of most of my friends. However, I have become a wrestling fan after ‘Dangal.’ – Fatima Sana Shaikh
At one point, I had lost my confidence as an actor, and working again was tough. I started stammering due to lack of confidence. It took time, but things became better. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I found it more challenging to act in a small scene, especially if it has no dialogue and if it is a close-up with only expressions. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I thought of learning cinematography, so I assisted a cinematographer for an ad. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I had given up on acting because I would go for auditions every day, but nothing would happen. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
Kids and adults are treated differently on sets. Being a kid, you can get away with anything, and it looks cute. But as an adult, it’s a whole new journey. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
After so many years of rejection, I felt acting would have to become a hobby rather than a full-time profession. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
I was about to give up acting when I got the call about being short-listed for ‘Dangal.’ – Fatima Sana Shaikh
When I was growing up, I thought I was getting bored of acting, so I left that. Then after a few years, I started missing it. I left my studies mid-way, and I used to give lots of auditions. – Fatima Sana Shaikh
