Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh Khan’s marriage has become a symbol of interfaith harmony, celebrated for nearly 33 years.
Their unique relationship often sparks conversations, especially regarding their ability to honor both Hindu and Islamic traditions while holding onto their individual beliefs.
A particularly notable aspect is Gauri’s decision to remain steadfast in her faith, a choice that frequently invites scrutiny and questions.
In a 2013 interview, Shah Rukh Khan candidly addressed the complexities of raising children in a multi-religious household.
He shared, “Sometimes they ask me which religion they belong to, and like a good Hindi film hero, I philosophically respond, ‘You are first Indian, and your religion is humanity,’ or I might sing an old Hindi film song: ‘You will be a Hindu or a Muslim—humanity is the essence of being human.’”
This perspective encapsulates the couple’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where love transcends religious boundaries.
Their journey together has not been without its challenges. When Gauri and Shah Rukh married in October 1991, her parents expressed reservations due to Shah Rukh’s Muslim background.
Gauri recalled in a talk show, “We changed his name to Abhinu so my parents would think he was a Hindu boy, but that decision was really foolish and childish.”
This anecdote highlights the initial hurdles they faced but also underscores their dedication to making their relationship work against societal expectations.
Shah Rukh Khan’s playful recounting of the family’s concerns sheds light on the couple’s ability to navigate cultural differences with humor.
In an interview with actress Farida Jalal, he reminisced about Gauri’s family whispering,
“This is a Muslim boy.
Will he change his name? Will she become a Muslim?” To ease their worries, Shah Rukh joked, “Alright, Gauri, put on your burqa,
let’s go pray.” His lighthearted approach not only defused tension but also demonstrated their shared commitment to respect and understanding.
Gauri Khan is more than just Shah Rukh Khan’s wife; she is a formidable professional in her own right, excelling as a film producer, fashion designer, and renowned interior designer.
Her accomplishments have not gone unnoticed; in 2018, Fortune magazine recognized her as one of the “50 Most Powerful Women,” highlighting her individuality and strength beyond the shadow of her famous husband.
In the spirit of mutual respect, Gauri has emphasized the importance of balancing their differing faiths.
During an episode of Koffee with Karan, she stated, “We have maintained a balance in accepting each other’s faiths.
I respect Shah Rukh Khan’s religion, but that doesn’t mean I will change my own. I believe everyone should have the freedom to follow their beliefs while maintaining mutual respect.”
This sentiment resonates deeply in today’s diverse society, advocating for acceptance and understanding among different cultures and religions.
Their family life beautifully illustrates this balance. Gauri remarked, “During Diwali, I perform prayers, and my family follows this tradition. On Eid, Shah Rukh takes a central role, and we participate in that as well.
The children embrace both traditions, but they lean more towards Shah Rukh’s beliefs.
Nonetheless, we celebrate both Diwali and Eid beautifully.” This dual celebration not only enriches their children’s upbringing but also reflects their commitment to fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared joy.
Despite being married to one of the world’s most prominent figures, Gauri has forged her path and established her identity. Together, they are proud parents to Aryan, Suhana, and AbRam Khan, embodying the essence of love, respect, and harmony within their family. Gauri and Shah Rukh Khan’s marriage serves as a powerful testament to the beauty of interfaith relationships, proving that love knows no boundaries.