Watan – In the bustling streets of Cairo, where history meets modernity, Egyptian actress Elham Shaheen recounted a striking incident involving a beggar that led her to reconsider her stance on aiding street panhandlers. During a live broadcast with media personality Boussy Shalaby, Shaheen described her surprise encounter with an old beggar who was crying and shouting after being harassed and assaulted by children.

Moved by the scene, Shaheen, in a gesture of genuine benevolence, extended an offer to the woman: a sheltered abode in her residence, coupled with a monthly stipend. She clarified her intent, stating, “I didn’t expect her to work; I merely sought someone to answer the door, given my housemaid’s language barrier.”

Yet, the subsequent revelation was startling. The beggar, far from the destitute figure she portrayed, owned property and viewed begging not as a last resort but as a deliberate choice. She orchestrated scenes of feigned distress, collaborating with children to evoke sympathy and, consequently, monetary contributions from empathetic onlookers.

Reflecting on the incident, Shaheen remarked, “That encounter compelled me to reevaluate my approach to giving on the streets, recognizing the layers of deception that often underlie such acts.”

In a separate vein, the Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival recently celebrated Shaheen, paying homage to her illustrious career. The actress, with her characteristic grace, likened the honor to being at the epicenter of a grand celebration, expressing heartfelt gratitude to peers and attendees, and extending her best wishes to all the honorees.

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