‘It wasn’t my time to go’: Saif Ali Khan shares lessons he learnt after stabbing incident; expert on how trauma reshapes sense of safety and control | Lifestyle News
Experiencing a violent intrusion or attack inside one’s own home can leave deep psychological scars, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. It can change how a person views safety, trust, and even the future.
Actor Saif Ali Khan recently opened up about the horrifying stabbing incident that took place at his Bandra residence earlier this year. While recovering from the traumatic event, he has come to realise just how crucial home safety and personal security really are. “My takeaway is that you must lock doors and be careful. We have a lot, and a lot do not. So, while I am grateful, we must understand that and be careful. Lock things. Block access points. And smarten up security,” he told ETimes.
He went on to admit that, despite previously disliking the idea of having constant protection, he now sees its value. “It’s sad. I never believed in security. Hate to have people around me, but it needs to be there, for a while at least, I guess,” he shared, reflecting on a shift in his perspective. He also expressed a sense of renewed purpose, saying, “It wasn’t my time to go. Maybe I’m meant to do a few more good films and have some more nice times with family and friends. Do some more charity. Just make sure you’re damn good. Work hard, and hopefully, the world will appreciate it.”
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After a traumatic event, how does one’s relationship with safety and control typically change?
Neha Cadabam, senior psycholog and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells , “Experiencing a traumatic event often reshapes a person’s sense of safety, both in their physical space and internal world. What was once familiar — like one’s own home — can suddenly feel unpredictable or unsafe. This disruption to our sense of control can trigger heightened vigilance, anxiety, and even changes in daily routines.”
She adds that a healthy way to begin processing this is to “acknowledge the emotional impact rather than suppress it.” Creating a structured sense of safety, such as adjusting home security or setting boundaries within one’s environment, can be grounding. “It’s also helpful to talk about the experience with a mental health professional or a trusted person. Over time, practices such as mindfulness, grounding techniques, and trauma-informed therapy can help individuals slowly reclaim a sense of stability and regain trust in their surroundings,” notes the expert.
How do people navigate the emotional discomfort of needing protection, especially if it conflicts with lifestyle preferences?
Saif mentioned a shift in mindset — from disliking constant security to accepting its necessity. Cadabam explains, “It’s quite natural to feel conflicted when our lifestyle must adapt in ways that challenge our comfort zones. For someone who values autonomy and privacy, the need for visible security can feel intrusive or even disorienting. But after a traumatic event, accepting help or protective measures doesn’t mean giving up freedom—it’s a step toward restoring it.”
Navigating this discomfort involves allowing space for both feelings: the discomfort with change and the relief that comes from feeling safer. Often, reframing protection as a temporary measure, or as an act of self-care rather than weakness, can help bridge that emotional gap, she says.
