Gauri Khan and Shah Rukh Khan have been married for nearly 33 years, tying the knot in 1991 when they were 21 and 26, respectively. Their interfaith marriage, with Gauri being Hindu and Shah Rukh being Muslim, has often sparked discussions, particularly around Gauri’s decision not to convert to Islam. Despite the challenges they faced initially, including hesitation from Gauri’s family, the couple has embraced both their religions, celebrating both Hindu and Islamic festivals while maintaining their individual faiths.
In a conversation on First Ladies with Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla, Gauri revealed that they once jokingly changed Shah Rukh’s name to “Abhinav” to ease her family’s concerns about the interfaith marriage, which she now considers “silly and childish.” Shah Rukh, in an interview with Farida Jalal, recalled how Gauri’s family feared he might change her faith. He humorously teased them by pretending Gauri would start wearing a burkha and be renamed Ayesha.
On Koffee With Karan, Gauri explained her decision not to convert, emphasizing the mutual respect between the couple. She shared, “I respect Shah Rukh’s religion, but that doesn’t mean I would convert. Everyone should follow their own faith, and there should be mutual respect. Shah Rukh would never disrespect my religion either.”
Gauri also spoke about their family’s unique way of blending traditions. During Diwali, she leads the pooja, and Shah Rukh leads the prayers during Eid, with their children participating in both. However, she noted that her mother still feels uneasy when Aryan, their son, identifies as Muslim.
In a 2013 interview with Outlook Turning Points, Shah Rukh shared how practicing both religions at home sometimes confused their children. When asked about their religion, he often replied that they are “Indian first” and that humanity is their religion.
Beyond being Shah Rukh’s wife, Gauri has built a successful career as a film producer, fashion designer, and celebrity interior designer. In 2018, she was named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women” by Fortune Magazine, and in 2008, she appeared on the cover of Vogue India, which referred to her as the “First Lady of Bollywood.” Throughout their marriage, Gauri has maintained her individuality, even as the couple raised their three children: Aryan, Suhana, and AbRam Khan.
