Fatima Sana Shaikh, the Bollywood actress known for her roles in "Dangal" and "Sam Bahadur," has recently shared her experiences with eating disorders, revealing a past struggle with bulimia and opening up about the challenges she has faced. In a candid discussion, Shaikh spoke about the lack of control she felt during that period of her life.

Shaikh's revelation sheds light on a condition that affects millions worldwide but often remains shrouded in secrecy and stigma. Eating disorders, including bulimia nervosa, are serious mental health conditions characterized by disturbances in eating behaviors, and distorted thoughts and feelings about body weight and shape. Bulimia often involves a cycle of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, excessive exercise, or fasting.

The actress's journey reflects the importance of acceptance and self-care in managing both mental and physical health. Previously, Shaikh has also spoken about being diagnosed with epilepsy while filming "Dangal". She initially faced denial and fear, particularly concerning the possibility of having a seizure in public. Shaikh noted the stigma associated with epilepsy, mentioning the misconceptions that people with the condition are "either on drugs, seeking attention, or possessed".

In June 2025, Shaikh recounted a frightening experience of having multiple seizures during a flight to the USA, which caused her to cancel shoots for two major film projects. She was given strong medication to stop the seizures, which left her heavily sedated and unable to move. She also shared that support groups and meaningful conversations played a vital role in her recovery.

Shaikh has emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to health, noting that she does not adhere to strict diets anymore. She had previously struggled with counting calories, under-eating, and then binge eating, which she recognized as an unhealthy pattern. Now, she focuses on eating when she is hungry and prefers home-cooked meals. She also tries to maintain a morning ritual that includes meditation and reading.

By sharing her personal struggles, Fatima Sana Shaikh is contributing to raising awareness about both eating disorders and epilepsy, encouraging others to seek help and embrace self-acceptance. Her story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that individuals can lead fulfilling lives while managing their health conditions.