Beyond Fairytales: When Shah Rukh & Gauri’s Love Story Faced Stones and Protests
Shah Rukh Khan, the megastar of Bollywood, and his wife, Gauri Khan, have a love story that mirrors the plotlines of their most captivating movies. However, their journey to marital bliss wasn’t challenging, especially considering the societal norms and religious differences they faced in the early 90s.
A Challenging Beginning
Their love story began in Delhi, where they met at a party and fell for each other. Yet, Gauri’s Hindu background and Shah Rukh’s Muslim heritage posed significant hurdles. Shah Rukh, in an interview with BBC, reminisced:
“Now I look fine. I’m dressed in a suit, with my hair brushed back. But at the time, I had hair all over here (pointing to my forehead) and was of a different religion. I wanted to be an actor. So, with this combination, if someone approached me and said, ‘See, my head is like this, I am from a different faith, and I want to be a film star,’ I would answer, ‘Pack your bags and get out of the home before I kick you out. So, I believe they were correct in not wanting their daughter to marry me.”
Overcoming Resistance
Undeterred by the obstacles, Shah Rukh endeavoured to win over Gauri’s family. He visited them in Delhi, determined to prove his commitment and respect. Despite initial reservations, Shah Rukh’s charm eventually won over Gauri’s family, and they received blessings for their union.
Gauri Khan’s Family
Protests And A Low-Key Wedding
However, news of their impending marriage stirred protests from fringe groups. On October 25, 1991, the couple decided on a low-key Hindu ceremony to prevent more animosity. Shah Rukh revealed
“We had demonstrations outside the home. Fortunately, I didn’t own a home, so I provided a friend’s address. They were throwing stones at him, not at me. My buddy Sanjay called me and said, “They are throwing stones at my house.” That did happen. So, we had to keep it (their marriage) a little secret and get it done.”
Love Triumphs Over Adversity
Despite facing opposition, Shah Rukh and Gauri’s love endured. Their marriage symbolized hope for interfaith couples, showcasing that love knows no boundaries. Shah Rukh, known for his wit, humorously acknowledged the challenges they faced, highlighting the strength of their bond.
