MUMBAI-
Indian Model and reality TV star Gauhar Khan, who was slapped by a youth for wearing short dress while shooting a reality show, said on Tuesday that she was “hurt and shocked” by the attack, but that the incident has made her determined.
The assault happened on Sunday while Gauhar was hosting the finale of ‘India’s Raw Star’ at Film City in Mumbai.
Twenty four-year-old Akil Malik, an audience member, slapped her during the break of the show.
He said that being a Muslim woman, the actress should not have worn a short dress.
“I assure you all that I am hurt but not out. I am shocked but more determined. I felt injured but stronger than ever,” Gauhar said.
She also thanked her family and friends for supporting her.
Malik, who had been coming over to the shooting set of the show as a member of the audience for the past three days, had managed to get on to the stage despite a strong presence of over 250 bouncers and 2,500 people.
Before a stunned Gauhar could realise what was happening, Malik slapped her, leaving her in tears.
Later, Malik tried to touch Gauhar and criticised her for wearing skimpy clothes and dancing to item songs “despite being a Muslim”.
“This loser doesn’t represent my beautiful faith which in itself means peace and submission. He apparently attacked me because I am an actress. He wanted to send out his warped message. I am using the same status to appeal all women to stand against such acts,” she said.
Khan said despite her shock, she did not let the incident spoil the finale of the show and completed her shoot.