When Shaheer Sheikh, Kriti Sanon's Do Patti triggered Erica Fernandes of her abusive relationship; says ‘It took me back to those days’

Actress Erica Fernandes recently opened up about a traumatic chapter in her life, revealing how Kriti Sanon and Shaheer Sheikh’s film Do Patti triggered memories of her past abusive relationship. Speaking on Shardul Pandit’s podcast, Erica shared her struggles with moving on from the emotional and physical scars left by that experience.
Recalling her reaction to the film, Erica said, “That incident left a scar on me, and at times, when I see films where there is physical abuse, a man abusing a woman, I get flashes of those moments. It actually took a toll on me. When I watched Do Patti, it took me back to those days. This is the first time I’m speaking about it.”

She admitted that it took her years to come to terms with the trauma and even longer to talk about it. “I’ve been single for so long because I was not able to move on. The baggage, trauma, trust issues... everything changed me. I’ve gone through hardships, but they shaped me into who I am today,” she shared.
Erica revealed that her relationship had reached a point of physical abuse, but at the time, she chose not to speak out. “When you're an actor, everything becomes news. If you go to the cops, it’s all over the media, and then there’s a media trial. I wasn’t sure what the outcome would be if I went to the police. I don’t trust the judicial system that much,” she explained.

She also highlighted why many women choose to remain silent about such experiences. “People question why we speak up later. But it takes time to deal with trauma before you’re ready to talk about it. I was dealing with it on my own, figuring out how to handle myself and the situation,” she said.

Erica’s powerful revelation sheds light on the long-lasting impact of abusive relationships and the emotional struggles survivors face in finding closure and healing.