'Hindu' Gauri Khan On Respecting Shah Rukh Khan's Religion: 'Doesn't Mean I'd Become A Muslim'
Gauri Khan once shared how she keeps her Hindu faith alive, celebrates Diwali despite being married to Muslim Shah Rukh Khan and navigates a loving interfaith home.
Gauri Khan has quietly but firmly shown how to balance love, faith and family. Married to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan for 34 years, she has maintained her Hindu identity while embracing an interfaith household. From leading Diwali poojas to navigating her husband's Islamic traditions, Gauri has created a home where respect and celebration of both religions flourish.
Long before Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan wedding in October 1991, Gauri's parents worried about her converting to Islam. 'There was a lot of concern," she recalled, as even attempts were made to change Shah Rukh's name to Abhinav. She later called the idea 'unnecessary and childish." Shah Rukh lightened tense moments with his signature humour, joking that Gauri might wear a burkha and adopt a Muslim name, which briefly shocked her family.
On Koffee With Karan, Gauri discussed her religion
'There is a balance, I respect Shah Rukh's religion but that doesn't mean that I would convert and become a Muslim. I don't believe in that. I think everybody is an individual and follow their religion. But, obviously there should be no disrespect. Like Shah Rukh would not disrespect my religion as well."
Shah Rukh Khan And Gauri Celebrating Diwali And Eid With Their Children
Gauri leads Diwali celebrations, while Shah Rukh takes charge of Eid. Speaking on Ladies First, she explained how the children enjoy both festivals: 'Our kids embrace both festivals, often following Shah Rukh's lead, and enjoy celebrating both Diwali and Eid."
Shah Rukh has shared that this dual-religion upbringing sometimes left the children confused. In a 2013 interview with Outlook Turning Points, he said he would respond with humour that they are Indian first, and their core identity is humanity, jokingly referencing a Hindi film song.
Beyond being Shah Rukh's wife, Gauri has built a formidable career as a film producer, fashion designer, and celebrity interior designer. She was named one of Fortune Magazine's '50 Most Powerful Women" in 2018 and appeared on the cover of Vogue India in 2008, earning the title 'First Lady of Bollywood." She continues to maintain her individuality while raising Aryan, Suhana, and Abram, blending traditions and modern family values.
First Published:
August 14, 2025, 09:59 IST
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