Veteran actress Shabana Azmi has revealed that she has contracted H1N1 (swine flu), due to which she had to miss the students’ protest organized at Mumbai’s Shivaji Park on Friday. Sharing a health update on social media, the actor said that he has been advised to remain in isolation for the next five days.
Shabana Azmi got swine flu after Jantar Mantar protest, was not seen in Mumbai protest; Says she stands in solidarity with students
Azmi has been one of the most prominent public figures to support the student-led protests over the alleged NEET paper leak. Over the past three days, she actively participated in the demonstrations at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, where she marched with students, joined the “Chalo Sansad” rally and extended support to those on hunger strike.
Shabana Azmi shares health update
Informing her followers about her absence from the Mumbai protests, Azmi wrote that she had planned to join the protesters, but was unable to do so after suffering from H1N1. “My dear Mumbaikars, I was supposed to join your protest yesterday, but I have contracted H1N1 and need to remain in isolation for the next five days,” she wrote.
Despite her illness, the actor said she remains closely connected with the movement and keeps receiving updates from people participating on the ground.
Actor praised the courage of students
Azmi also praised the determination shown by young protesters, many of whom, he said, were participating in a protest for the first time: “I want to express my solidarity and appreciation. I have been receiving direct reports from young people on the ground. Many of them have participated in a protest for the first time and have experienced how much their voices matter.”
She said their commitment continues to inspire her: “I continue to be inspired by your courage and commitment and stand with you in solidarity.”
The veteran actor ended his post by sharing a poem written by his late father, renowned poet Kaifi Azmi.
Azmi is among the few celebrities who chose to participate in the protests in person rather than limiting their support to social media. During the protest at Jantar Mantar, she marched with students, rode on a protest vehicle with actor Prakash Raj, addressed the gathering and was also seen serving food to the hunger striking students.
