Sophie on being visibly shaken after man flashed her in Bandra

Singer and actress Sophie Choudryhas spoken out about a deeply disturbing incident she experienced in Mumbai’s upscale Bandra locality, shedding light on the everyday harassment women continue to face, even in seemingly safe environments.

In an interview with Hauterrfly, Sophie recounted the recent moment when she was flashed by a man in broad daylight.‘He literally unzipped in broad daylight’“It happened just a month ago,” Sophie said, visibly shaken. “I was driving through a lane in Bandra when I noticed a man literally unzipping and putting everything on display. It was shocking.” She stressed that such incidents are far too common and are often brushed off.

“I don’t even think some men realise what they’re doing. Sometimes, it’s so casual for them, like it’s not even criminal,” she explained.The incident, while disturbing, wasn’t her first. Sophie revealed, “The first time someone flashed at me was when I was a schoolgirl in London. It happens across the world, but that doesn’t make it any less horrifying.” She also recalled similar experiences in Khar, where men would stop their bikes and expose themselves while she was walking.

‘No hands’ is my new rule for fan photosThe conversation also delved into the issue of personal space and celebrity boundaries. “One thing celebs deal with constantly is fans who want photos. And while that’s totally okay, there are those who try to use that moment to get too close,” she said. “They’ll pretend it’s innocent and try to slip their hand around your waist.”

Sophie has since established a clear boundary. “Now, the first thing I say when someone asks for a photo is, ‘No hands.’

My team is also very alert about this. I’m happy to pose with you, respectfully, but you don’t get to touch me. That’s not part of the deal.”

Sophie rose to fame with hit tracks like Habibi, Le Le Mera Dil, and Babylove, and became a regular at music awards and concerts. Her film career includes roles in Shaadi No. 1, Pyaar Ke Side Effects, Shootout at Wadala, and Once Upon Ay Time in Mumbai Dobaara! She also took part in reality TV, making appearances in Bigg Boss 8 and Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 7.