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Updated Jul 25, 2026 · 18:46
India News Updated Jul 25, 2026

Shabana Azmi Contracts H1N1, Remains in Isolation but Stands with Protesters

Veteran actress and activist Shabana Azmi has contracted H1N1 swine flu and is in isolation for five days. She shared a solidarity message with protesters in Mumbai, saying she receives first-hand updates from young people on the ground. Her team confirmed she is running a high fever of 102 degrees and has been advised rest. Despite her illness, she continues to express her support and inspiration from the protesters' courage.

Shabana Azmi says she'll remain in isolation after contracting H1N1, is receiving on-ground protest updates

Mumbai, July 25

Veteran actress and activist Shabana Azmi has said she will remain in isolation for the next five days after contracting H1N1.

She added that even as she continues to stay in isolation, she still stands strong with the students and protestors in solidarity.

Sharing a picture from the protest on her social media account, the actress revealed that although she could not attend the gathering, she has been receiving first-hand updates from young people on the ground.

"My dear Mumbaikars, I was meant to join your protest yesterday, but I've come down with H1N1 and need to remain in isolation for the next five days. Even so, I want to express my solidarity and appreciation. I'm receiving first-hand reports from the young people on the ground, many of them have taken part in a protest for the first time and have experienced how much their voice counts. I continue to be inspired by your courage and commitment and stand by you in solidarity," she wrote while sharing a motivational poem by legendary poet father Kaifi Azmi

According to her team, the 74-year-old actress who has contracted swine flu, is running a high fever of 102 degrees.

A statement from her team shared on Thursday, read, "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."

The 74-year-old actress had earlier been seen actively participating in the protests, and was sharing regular updates from the ground through her social media handles.

During one of the protest gatherings, she had also fallen ill and was taken to an emergency medical centre.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Priya S

Wishing Shabana ji a speedy recovery! It’s inspiring to see her commitment even while running a fever of 102 to stand with the youth. This is true activism. 🙏

Vikram M

Look, I respect her activism but sometimes I wonder if celebrities using their platform for protests actually helps or just creates more noise. She should focus on her health first, the students will manage. Just my two paisa. 🤷‍♂️

Sneha F

Such dedication at age 74! And she’s still getting updates from the ground—that shows how deeply she cares. Also, Kaifi Azmi’s poem must have been so moving. Get well soon, madam! 🌸

Rohan X

I’m really impressed that despite being unwell, she’s still sharing her solidarity and encouraging first-time protestors. That’s the kind of mentorship we need from senior figures. H1N1 is no joke, but her spirit is unstoppable! 💪

Kavya N

Yaar, this is peak Indian auntie energy — sick but still staying involved in the fight! Just hope she follows the doctor’s advice and doesn’t overexert herself. Protest will be there for a while, health is paramount. 🙏

James A

Solidarity is powerful, but isolating with H1N1 is also responsible behavior. She’s showing how to be a good citizen even while protesting. Hats off to Shabana Azmi for her consistency over the years. 👏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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