Aamir Khan refutes allegations that PK is advancing an anti-religious and love jihadist ideology.
Table of Contents
Aamir Khan, one of Indian cinema’s most influential figures, has finally addressed the long-standing controversy surrounding his 2014 blockbuster PK. The film, celebrated for its bold take on social issues, faced accusations of promoting an anti-religion agenda and the contentious concept of “love jihad.” In a recent interview, the 60-year-old superstar dismissed these claims, emphasizing the film’s true message and the universal humanity at its core. Here’s a deep dive into Aamir’s response and the broader context of the debate.
Aamir Khan Addresses PK’s Criticism
In an interview with India TV on June 15, 2025, Aamir Khan tackled the allegations that PK targeted religion or disrespected religious sentiments. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, PK follows an alien (played by Aamir) who questions religious practices and exposes the exploitation of faith by self-proclaimed godmen. While the film was a critical and commercial hit, grossing over ₹735 crore worldwide, it sparked outrage among some groups who claimed it mocked religious beliefs. “They’re wrong. We’re not against any religion. We respect all religions and all religious people,” Aamir asserted. He clarified that PK’s sole purpose was to caution against those who exploit religion for personal gain. “That film just tells us to be cautious of those who exploit religion to fool the common man in order to extract money from them. You’ll find people like that in every religion,” he explained. Aamir’s response underscores the film’s intent to critique hypocrisy, not faith itself, aligning with his career-long commitment to socially impactful storytelling.
Debunking the “Love Jihad” Narrative
Another major point of contention was PK’s subplot involving an Indian Hindu woman (Anushka Sharma) falling in love with a Pakistani Muslim man (Sushant Singh Rajput). Critics labeled this storyline as promoting “love jihad,” a controversial term used to describe alleged attempts to convert individuals through interfaith relationships. Aamir firmly rejected this narrative, emphasizing that love transcends religious boundaries. “This is just humanity. It’s above religion,” he said, advocating for a perspective that prioritizes human connection over communal divisions. To drive home his point, Aamir drew from his own family’s experiences. “People from different faiths marrying each other does not necessarily mean love jihad,” he stated, questioning the logic behind such accusations. He highlighted his own interfaith family dynamics: his sisters, Nikhat and Farhat, are married to Hindu men, Santosh Hegde and Rajeev Dutta, respectively, while his daughter, Ira Khan, married fitness coach Nupur Shikhare in 2023. Aamir himself was married to Hindu women, Reena Dutta (1986–2002) and Kiran Rao (2005–2021). “Would you say my sisters or daughter marrying Hindu men is love jihad?” Aamir asked, challenging the selective application of the term. His candid remarks highlight the absurdity of labeling consensual relationships between individuals of different faiths as agenda-driven.
On His Children’s Names: A Personal Touch
Aamir also addressed questions about why his children—Ira, Junaid, and Azad—carry Muslim surnames despite having Hindu mothers. With characteristic humor, he remarked, “Husbands ki zyada chalti nahi hai (Husbands don’t have too much of a say).” He explained that his first wife, Reena Dutta, chose the names Junaid and Ira, while Kiran Rao named their son Azad. Notably, Aamir revealed that Ira’s name, often assumed to be Muslim, is inspired by Irawati, another name for the Hindu goddess Saraswati. “Reena wanted to pronounce it differently,” he shared, citing The Penguin Book of Hindu Names by Maneka Gandhi as the source of inspiration. This personal anecdote not only dispels assumptions about his family’s naming choices but also reinforces Aamir’s message of unity and shared cultural heritage, regardless of religious labels.
Aamir Khan’s Legacy of Meaningful Cinema
Aamir Khan’s career, spanning over three decades, is marked by films that spark conversation and challenge societal norms. From Taare Zameen Par (2007), which addressed dyslexia and education, to Dangal (2016), which championed gender equality, Aamir has consistently used his platform to tackle pressing issues. PK, with its satirical take on religious exploitation, fits squarely within this legacy. Despite the controversies, the film’s global success and enduring relevance speak to its impact. Aamir’s response to the PK controversy reflects his commitment to clarity and dialogue. By addressing the accusations head-on, he seeks to shift the focus back to the film’s message: a call for critical thinking and compassion over blind adherence to dogma.
Why This Matters
The PK controversy, reignited by Aamir’s recent comments, highlights the challenges of addressing sensitive topics like religion in a diverse society. The accusations of promoting “love jihad” or disrespecting faith reveal the polarized lens through which some view interfaith narratives. Aamir’s defense of PK and his personal anecdotes serve as a reminder that art and love can bridge divides, fostering understanding rather than division. As debates around PK continue, Aamir’s words encourage viewers to revisit the film with fresh eyes, focusing on its universal message rather than reductive labels. What are your thoughts on Aamir Khan’s response to the PK controversy? Have you seen the film, and do you agree with its message? Share your views in the comments below!
Source: Information based on Aamir Khan’s interview with India TV on June 15, 2025.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on publicly available sources and reflects the views expressed by Aamir Khan in the cited interview. Readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
