Shamla Hamza on shooting ‘Feminichi Fathima’ with 6-month-old daughter: ‘It has been difficult...'

Shamla Hamza won the Best Actress award at the Kerala State Film Awards for her role in ‘Feminichi Fathima’.In the movie, she portrays the role of a housewife who dares to defy patriarchy.

Balancing motherhood and acting

When she stepped into the lead role of 'Feminichi Fathima', her daughter was just six months old.

Real life and reel life intertwined. Shooting days meant juggling emotion-heavy scenes and feeding breaks, and she often spoke about how demanding that period felt.

During the interview with Onmanorama, she admitted, “It has been difficult, like for any mother.”While also expressing deep appreciation for her team’s support, she added, “But my director and the crew were extremely supportive and gave me the space and time to look after my baby even amid the shoot.”

Feminist storytelling rooted in reality

'Feminichi Fathima' tells the story of a woman navigating a controlled household and claiming her voice. Directed by Fazil Muhammed, the film also stars Kumar Sunil, Viji Viswanath, Praseetha, Raji R Unnsi, and Babitha Basheer. Shamla shared how viewers resonated with the message, saying, “Many, after watching the film, told me they were waiting for such a simple definition of feminism.”After winning the Best Actress award, she said in a statement to ANI, “This is my second movie, and I am so happy and excited that I received State Film Award for Best Actress. I got a chance for this movie only because of 1001 Nunakal. I am really thankful to the team and Director Fasil Muhammed.”