The Bihu, Gauri Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan’s interfaith marriage has been of great interest since the day they were married on October 25, 1991. Being a Hindu, Gauri had confronted her family members at first even when she had decided to marry Shah Rukh, who is a Muslim. Gauri describes how her family reacted to their relationship. In one such interview with fashion designers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla on First Ladies, Gauri discusses one such incident wherein in an effort to win over her family, they tried to change his name to Abhinav so that he would “look like a Hindu boy. And God knows how silly it was.” That shows how they kept trying to meet the whims and wishes of family but at the same time, staying true to themselves.
In various interviews, Gauri has been candid about diverse perspectives towards religion and the idea of conversion. On Koffee With Karan, she stated, “There is a balance. I respect Shah Rukh’s religion, but that doesn’t mean I would convert. I believe everyone should follow their own faith, and there should be mutual respect.” This says a lot for the fact that she is a believing soul who believes in one practicing his personal religion, with mutual respect forming the nucleus of their marriage.
She also talks about the various complexities that arise in terms of their interfaith relationship, notably concerning their children. She says that her mother is even more puzzled when Aryan says, “I am a Muslim”: “When Aryan tells her, ‘I am a Muslim,’ she looks confused.” This again points to the generational issues that families have when they are dealing with such interfaith dynamics.
The Khans have beautifully merged both Hindu and Islamic traditions while bringing up their children Aryan, Suhana, and AbRam. On First Ladies, Gauri spoke about their family traditions: “During Diwali, I conduct the pooja, and the family follows. On Eid, Shah Rukh conducts, and we follow.” This ensures that their children get exposed to and respect both traditions.
The love tale has inspired many as the two often make headlines celebrating each other’s success and cheering for each other. Gauri co-founded Red Chillies Entertainment with Shah Rukh in 2002 and has produced several hit movies such as Main Hoon Na and Chennai Express.
It thus presents a fact that Gauri Khan sees in Shah Rukh tremendous respect for the other’s belief. How could their journey be an example of how love can conquer all differences of cultures and give birth to a believing family spirit?.
