Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was attacked and injured during a violent home invasion at his residence in Mumbai’s Bandra (West) area early Thursday morning. The assailant, who reportedly gained access via the building’s fire escape, inflicted multiple stab wounds on the actor before fleeing the scene.
Khan, 54, was promptly rushed to Lilavati Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. A team led by renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Nitin Dange successfully removed a knife lodged in Khan’s thoracic spine and repaired a spinal fluid leak caused by the injury. The actor remains hospitalized but is reported to be in stable condition and recovering from the attack.
The incident occurred between 2 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. when Khan reportedly intervened upon hearing a commotion in his home. The intruder, armed with a knife, had already confronted and injured a house help, identified as Eliyamma Philip. According to police reports, the attacker demanded ₹1 crore from Philip before turning violent.
During the altercation, Khan sustained serious injuries, including a deep stab wound to his spine. Despite the attack, the intruder managed to escape using the same fire escape he had used to enter the premises.
Khan’s wife, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, and their two sons were present in the apartment at the time but were unharmed. Kapoor Khan has declined to comment on the incident, focusing instead on her husband’s recovery.
Mumbai Police have launched a large-scale investigation, deploying 20 teams to track down the suspect. Initial reports indicate the attacker may have had prior knowledge of the apartment’s layout, raising concerns about possible inside involvement. Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Satyanarayan Chaudhary stated, “We are pursuing multiple leads and analyzing all available evidence, including CCTV footage from the building and surrounding areas.”
The police have also questioned building security staff and neighbors to gather more information about the intruder’s movements before and after the attack.
The attack has sparked renewed concerns over safety in Bandra, a neighborhood known for housing several high-profile celebrities and prominent personalities. This marks the third major security breach in the area within the past nine months. Residents have called for stricter surveillance and enhanced security measures in upscale residential complexes.
Local resident Sunil Mehta, who lives in a nearby building, said, “This incident shows that even well-guarded buildings are not immune to such crimes. It’s time for all housing societies to reevaluate their security protocols.”
Saif Ali Khan, a prominent figure in the Indian film industry, is best known for his roles in films such as Dil Chahta Hai, Omkara, and the Sacred Games web series. Fans and colleagues from the film fraternity have expressed their shock and extended their wishes for his speedy recovery.
Actor and close friend Salman Khan tweeted, “Praying for your speedy recovery, Saif. Stay strong!” Other Bollywood stars, including Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor Khan’s sister Karisma Kapoor, have also visited the hospital to check on Khan.
While Saif Ali Khan’s condition remains stable, the incident has underscored the pressing need for heightened security in Mumbai’s high-profile residential areas. The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to apprehending the attacker swiftly.
Residents and fans alike hope this incident will serve as a wake-up call for improved vigilance and preventive measures to ensure the safety of the city’s residents.
