"A sense of loss...":' Dangal director Nitesh Tiwari breaks silence on Zaira Wasim's decision to quit Bollywood over religious reasons

Former Bollywood actress Zaira Wasim made her debut in Bollywood with Aamir Khan's 'Dangal' in 2016. Wasim played the younger version of wrestler Geeta Phogat and garnered a lot of praises and awards for her role in the film, including National Film Award for Best supporting actress. However, in a recent turn of events, Zaira announced her 'disassociation' from the field of acting, saying that she is not happy with her line of work as it affected her faith and religion. 

READ: Shiv Sena Slams Zaira Wasim For Making Islam Sound 'intolerant' As She Quits Bollywood Citing Religion

And now breaking silence over the matter, 'Dangal' director Nitesh Tiwari said that it was a 'shock' to him and that end of the day it is her life, and she has the right to lead it the way she deems fit. He went on to say that she was 'chosen' for reasons best known to all of them and that it is a 'great loss' since she was extremely talented. 

The actress shared a heartfelt note on Instagram that read, "Though I may fit here perfectly, I do not belong here." The 'Secret Superstar' actor accepted in her post that Bollywood has given her immense love and support but this is not what makes her happy in life.

READ: "Doesn’t Matter If Two Film Olds Are Ungrateful To The Industry," Says Raveena Tandon Over Zaira Wasim's Decision To Quit Bollywood Citing 'religious' Reasons

"This field indeed brought a lot of love, support, and applause my way, but what it also did was to lead me to a path of ignorance, as I silently and unconsciously transitioned out of imaan.  I am not truly happy with this identity i.e my line of work. For a very long time now it has felt like I have struggled to become someone else," she added. Revealing that she tried hard to convince herself that whatever she is doing is okay, the actor further admitted that she soon realised the whole process is making her lose stability in life.