MUMBAI: Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan was stabbed six times early Thursday morning during a burglary attempt at his Bandra residence in Mumbai.
The shocking incident occurred around 2:30AM when an intruder broke into the 11th-floor apartment. Saif, who reportedly woke up upon hearing noises, confronted the assailant in an attempt to protect his family. A scuffle ensued, resulting in serious injuries to the actor.
Saif sustained wounds on his arm, wrist, and spine, two of which are described as deep. He was rushed to Lilavati Hospital by his elder son, Ibrahim, and a caretaker. Doctors are currently performing surgery to treat the injuries, including plastic surgery on his left wrist and neurosurgical intervention for the wound near his spine, according to reports in India media.
Kareena's statement to the media
His wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan, who was out dining with her friends during the incident, issued a statement through her team. It read, “There was an attempted burglary at Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s residence last night. Saif had an injury on his arm and is in hospital, undergoing a procedure. The rest of the family is doing fine. We request the media and fans to be patient and not speculate further as the police are investigating.”
Who was the intruder?
The Bandra police have registered an FIR and launched a thorough investigation. Preliminary reports indicate that the intruder gained access to the building by bypassing security. CCTV footage is being reviewed to identify the assailant and ascertain how they reached the actor’s flat.
Three attendants present in the building during the incident have been detained for questioning. While one of them reportedly sustained minor injuries, police suspect the involvement of only one intruder.
Police said the investigation was underway to determine how the security breach occurred.
Pataudi family rallies around Saif
The Pataudi family, known for their close-knit bond, has rallied around Saif during this crisis. Kareena and their two sons, Taimur and Jehangir, who were unharmed in the incident, are currently by Saif’s side at the hospital. Elder daughter Sara Ali Khan, Saif’s daughter from his first marriage, is also reportedly keeping a close watch on the situation.
Doctors at Lilavati Hospital have confirmed that Saif’s injuries are not life-threatening, but the extent of long-term damage will only be known post-surgery. According to Dr Niraj Uttamani, the hospital’s COO, “He had six incised wounds caused by a sharp object. Two of these are deep, including one near the spinal cord.”
A look at Saif Ali Khan’s life
Saif Ali Khan, a leading name in Bollywood, has earned acclaim for films like Dil Chahta Hai, Hum Tum, and the Race series. Despite this personal setback, his professional legacy continues to shine. Known for his versatility, Saif has also ventured into digital platforms like Netflix with hit series Sacred Games, where his performance garnered widespread appreciation.
Khan, 54, hails from India’s illustrious Pataudi lineage, being the son of cricket legend Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and actress Sharmila Tagore.
Saif Ali Khan belongs to the royal family of Pataudi and holds the title of Nawab of Pataudi. He was first married to actress Amrita Singh, with whom he has two children, including actress Sara Ali Khan. After their divorce, he married actress Kareena Kapoor Khan in 2012, and the couple has two sons, Taimur Ali Khan and Jehangir Ali Khan. The couple is often in the spotlight, not just for their film projects but also for their royal heritage and public appearances.
Fans and Bollywood in shock
The incident has sent shockwaves across the Bollywood fraternity. Social media is flooded with messages from fans and celebrities wishing Saif a speedy recovery. His production team has also urged fans to refrain from speculation and allow the authorities to carry out their investigation.
Police are expected to provide updates in the coming days as they comb through evidence, including fingerprints and surveillance footage. Meanwhile, heightened security measures are being implemented at Saif’s residence to ensure the family’s safety.