By Anil Merani: It’s important to remember that Reem Shaikh’s professional expertise lies in her acting craft, not in being a commentator on global events. Criticizing her for a lack of knowledge about incidents like the Air India crash or other current affairs feels disproportionate and unfair. While public figures often face scrutiny for their statements or perceived ignorance, expecting Shaikh to be well-versed in every news event is unrealistic and overlooks the boundaries of her professional role. Acting requires emotional depth, technical skill, and a commitment to storytelling—not an encyclopedic understanding of current affairs. Criticizing her for a misstep in this area feels akin to holding her accountable for something peripheral to her primary responsibilities.
In an ideal world, public figures like Shaikh might stay informed to engage thoughtfully with their audience, especially in an era where social media amplifies their voices. However, not everyone is fully informed about ongoing events, and this lack of awareness does not inherently diminish their competence in their chosen field. The expectation that celebrities must be omniscient often stems from a culture that places undue pressure on them to embody perfection, overlooking their humanity. Shaikh’s unfamiliarity with a specific incident, such as a plane crash, may simply reflect a busy schedule, personal priorities, or a momentary lapse—none of which warrant harsh judgment.
The public’s energy would be better directed toward critiquing her acting performance or professional choices, where accountability is relevant. Criticizing her for a knowledge gap outside her area of expertise risks creating a toxic environment where individuals are penalized for not meeting arbitrary standards. It’s not a capital offense, as mentioned, but rather a minor lapse that doesn’t define her worth or talent. It is crucial that empathy and context guide these discussions, ensuring criticism remains fair and constructive.