Veteran Bollywood actor Shabana Azmi has been diagnosed with swine flu and has been advised to remain in isolation, forcing her to miss a planned student protest in Mumbai. The actor was scheduled to participate in a demonstration at Shivaji Park after spending several days supporting student protests in New Delhi.
Azmi’s team confirmed that the 75-year-old actor developed swine flu symptoms and was suffering from a high fever of 102 degrees. Doctors have advised her to rest and remain isolated for five days while she recovers from the illness.
“Shabana ji was meant to go to the protest today, but she has contracted swine flu with 102 fever and has been advised rest by the doctor,” her team said in a statement.
The health update came after Azmi actively participated in student demonstrations in Delhi. She had joined protests at Jantar Mantar in support of students demanding accountability over allegations surrounding the NEET examination paper leak.
Before falling ill, the veteran actor had become one of the most prominent celebrity voices supporting the student movement. She participated in the Chalo Sansad protest on July 20 and regularly expressed solidarity with protesting students through social media updates.
During one of the demonstrations, Azmi also revealed that she experienced an asthma attack after police used tear gas during the protest. She said she managed the situation with her inhaler and returned to speak with students after recovering.
The actor shared that she was escorted to a nearby building for medical assistance before rejoining the protesters. She praised the determination of the students and expressed support for their demands.
The student-led protests have continued for several weeks, with demonstrators seeking transparency and action over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination process. Protesters have also called for accountability from government officials, including demands related to the role of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk ended his 20-day hunger strike following assurances from the government that arrests had been made and special fast-track courts would handle cases linked to the controversy.
Shabana Azmi’s illness has temporarily paused her participation in public demonstrations, but her support for the student movement has drawn significant attention. The actor remains one of Bollywood’s most respected figures, known not only for her decades-long acting career but also for her involvement in social and public issues.
Her team has requested privacy as she follows medical advice and focuses on recovery. Fans and colleagues have wished the actor a speedy recovery as she completes her isolation period.
