Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan became the victim of a harrowing attack at his Bandra residence in the early hours of January 16, 2025, causing widespread shock and raising serious questions about celebrity security in Mumbai.
How the attack unfolded
In the early hours, an unidentified intruder managed to enter Saif Ali Khan’s 12th-floor apartment in the upscale Satguru Sharan building in Bandra West, confronting the actor and his staff.
The incident unfolded in the room of Saif Ali Khan’s four-year-old son, Jeh, escalating the severity of the situation.
Mr. Khan, in a brave attempt to defend his family, engaged with the intruder. The assailant, armed with a knife, stabbed the Bollywood actor six times, causing an alarming injury near his spine.
The attacker, after demanding a ransom of Rs 1 crore, fled the scene using the building’s stairwell, which was captured on CCTV footage.
How is Saif Ali Khan now?
Following the attack, Mr. Khan was immediately rushed to Lilavati Hospital by his son Ibrahim in an autorickshaw.
Doctors reported that the actor underwent a five-hour surgery to address the severe injuries, particularly the one near his spine where the knife had to be removed.
Post-surgery, Mr. Khan’s condition is stable, and he is currently recovering in the ICU with plans to move him to a regular ward within a couple of days. The medical team seemed optimistic about his recovery, noting that he is out of danger but will need rest and time to heal.
Investigation
Mumbai Police have launched a comprehensive investigation, forming multiple teams to track the assailant.
The CCTV footage has provided some leads, with the police identifying a suspect but still working towards an arrest. The investigation will also examine how such an attack could have occurred in a supposedly secure environment, potentially reviewing security protocols at high-profile residences across the city.
Family reaction
Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif’s wife, issued a heartfelt statement on Instagram, asking for privacy and respect for their family’s space during this traumatic time.
She highlighted the overwhelming nature of media speculation and the need for peace to process the incident.
Family members, including Saif’s mother, Sharmila Tagore, sister Soha Ali Khan, and children Ibrahim Ali Khan and Sara Ali Khan, visited him in the hospital, offering support and expressing relief over his stable condition.
Celebrities and fans flooded the social media platforms with support and prayers for Mr. Khan’s speedy recovery.
Security concerns raised as some questions remain unanswered
How the intruder bypassed security measures to reach the actor’s high-floor apartment without forced entry suggests either an inside job or a severe lapse in security protocols.
No signs of forced entry have been found leading to suspicions that the intruder might have had knowledge or assistance from someone within the building or Khan’s staff, raising questions about the vetting processes for household staff and the effectiveness of residential security in affluent areas.
Celebrity Safety
The attack is reminiscent of other recent security breaches involving celebrities like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan, highlighting ongoing issues with celebrity safety. It has reignited debates about the adequacy of personal security measures for public figures in Mumbai.
Political reactions
Opposition leaders in Maharashtra questioned the state’s law and order situation after the attack on the Bollywood star.
Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole has called for the resignation of the Home Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, emphasizing the incident as a sign of deteriorating safety in Mumbai. However, Mr. Fadnavis argued against labeling Mumbai unsafe based on isolated events and urged for a balanced view of the city’s security.
