Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh Khan have been married for almost 33 years, their interfaith marriage has often been the subject of much debate as they maintain their individual beliefs and celebrate both Hindu and Islamic festivals together, especially Gauri. Frequently asked questions about the choice not to convert…
Although Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh got married in October 1991, their wedding journey was full of challenges. Initially, Gauri’s parents were reluctant to marry into a Muslim family. “We changed his name to Abhinu so that my parents would think he was a Hindu boy, but the decision was really stupid and childish,” recalled Gauri while speaking on a show.
At the time of the wedding, many in Gauri’s family were worried that Shahrukh might pressure her to convert to Islam. Shah Rukh Khan recalled the incident in an interview with actress Farida Jalal, saying, “I remember when Gauri’s family was sitting and whispering, ‘This is a Muslim boy.’ Will he change his name? Will she become a Muslim?” So I jokingly said, ‘Okay Gori, put on your burqa, let’s pray. The whole family was looking at us, thinking that I had already converted him. I teased her saying that from now on she will wear burqa all the time and her name will be Aisha.
Similarly, in the first season of Koffee With Karan, Gauri had said about her decision to convert, “We both have a balance of accepting each other’s religion. I respect Shah Rukh Khan’s religion.” I do, but that doesn’t mean I will change my religion. I believe that everyone should have the freedom to follow their own beliefs. And mutual respect should be maintained. I am sure Shah Rukh will never insult my religion.
During an interview, Gauri said, ‘During Diwali, I do puja, and my family follows it. On the occasion of Eid, Shah Rukh plays the lead role and we follow him and the children adopt both the traditions. But their inclination is more towards Shah Rukh’s words. However, we celebrate both Diwali and Eid in a grand manner.
In an interview in 2013, Shah Rukh Khan revealed how practicing dual religions at home caused confusion for his children. “Sometimes they ask me what religion they belong to, and like a good Hindi film hero, I philosophically declare, ‘You are an Indian first, and your religion is humanity’.” Or I can sing an old Hindi film song, ‘Tu Hindu Banega Na Muslim Banega – Progeny of Insan Ki Olad Hai Insan Banega’.
Apart from being the wife of Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri is also a professional woman, serving as a film producer, fashion designer and a famous interior designer. In 2018, she was named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women” by Fortune magazine.
Despite being married to a prominent and influential personality of the world, Gauri has established an individuality of her own. The couple are parents to Aryan, Suhana and Abram Khan.
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**Interview with Gauri Khan on 33 Years of Marriage to Shah Rukh Khan**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Gauri. It’s hard to believe that you and Shah Rukh have been married for 33 years. How do you feel reflecting on your journey together?
**Gauri Khan:** Thank you for having me! It’s quite unbelievable, isn’t it? When we look back, it feels like just yesterday we were both navigating the challenges of our interfaith marriage, yet here we are, stronger than ever.
**Interviewer:** Your marriage has been a remarkable example of love transcending religious boundaries. Can you share a bit about the challenges you faced in the beginning?
**Gauri Khan:** Initially, my parents were quite concerned because of the religious differences. We even tried to change Shah Rukh’s name to make it sound more Hindu. It was a silly decision. We were young and didn’t fully understand the implications of our actions.
**Interviewer:** Shah Rukh has mentioned that your family was worried about whether he would pressure you to convert. How did you both deal with those concerns?
**Gauri Khan:** Yes, there were definitely whispers and doubts. I remember Shah Rukh teasing me, saying, “Put on your burqa, let’s pray.” He always approached those fears with humor, which really helped lighten the atmosphere. It was important for us to reassure our families that we would respect each other’s beliefs.
**Interviewer:** It’s inspiring to see how you both celebrate both Hindu and Islamic festivals. Why was it important for you to maintain your individual identities while being together?
**Gauri Khan:** For us, it’s about unity in diversity. Celebrating each other’s festivals has brought us closer and has allowed our families to merge beautifully. We want to show that love can bridge any divide.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your journey, Gauri. It’s clear that your love story is a lesson in acceptance and respect. What advice would you give to younger couples facing similar challenges?
**Gauri Khan:** Communication is key. Always talk openly about your beliefs and never compromise on respect for one another’s identities. Love can conquer many barriers when nourished with understanding and tolerance.
**Interviewer:** Wise words indeed. Thank you, Gauri, for this wonderful conversation. Here’s to many more years of love and togetherness for you and Shah Rukh!
**Gauri Khan:** Thank you! It’s been a pleasure.
