Aamir Khan’s latest production, Laapataa Ladies, is making waves in the film industry after being selected as India’s official entry for this year’s Oscars race. What sets this achievement apart is that the film is directed by Kiran Rao, Aamir’s ex-wife. Despite their divorce, the two share a strong professional and personal bond that continues to thrive.
Aamir has been outspoken about his admiration for Kiran’s directorial talents, revealing that he felt she was the ideal choice to bring Laapataa Ladies to life. In a recent interview with BBC News India, Aamir shared his gratitude for their enduring relationship, both as collaborators and friends. “I feel so grateful and fortunate that Kiran has come into my life and we have spent 16 beautiful years together. I have learnt so much from her. She is an amazing person, an amazing human being, and she is also a great director,” he said.
When discussing his decision to entrust Kiran with the film, Aamir explained that it was her honest approach to storytelling that drew him to her as a director. “When I read the script, the first name that came to my mind was Kiran, because I feel she is such an honest director,” he said. He added that it was Kiran’s ability to tell the story with integrity that would elevate the drama of the film, rather than overdramatizing it.
Aamir emphasized Kiran’s creative instincts and her deep commitment to her work. “Once she takes ownership of a script or a film, she gives it her all. I know I can completely depend on her to do what is required for the film,” he said. Their shared commitment to their craft, he believes, makes them a powerful team, both on and off-set.
Despite their divorce in 2021, Aamir and Kiran have maintained an amicable relationship, co-parenting their son, Azad, and collaborating professionally. Aamir shed light on how they navigate their relationship post-divorce. “There is no secret. She is a great person and I’m not too bad either. We really love each other and respect each other,” he said. He further revealed that while they have had their share of disagreements during the filmmaking process, they always respect each other’s creative instincts. “We argue every point, but our sensibilities are very similar. It’s about trying to convince the other person of a better way of conveying something.”
Aamir also compared the filmmaking process to raising a child, where the director is the “mother” and the producer, like himself, plays the role of the “father.” Despite their changed relationship dynamics, Aamir and Kiran continue to support each other, proving that mutual respect and admiration can thrive even after personal changes.