Bollywood actress Soha Ali Khan recently shared insights about her mother, legendary actress Sharmila Tagore. She highlighted how Sharmila always lived life on her own terms, breaking societal norms.
Speaking to the media, Soha Ali Khan described Sharmila as a trailblazer who entered Bollywood when acting was not considered respectable for women from well-known families. In the 1960s, Sharmila made headlines by wearing a bikini on-screen, a bold move at the time. Later, she married for love despite initial family reservations.
Sharmila spoke about her interfaith marriage on Simi Garewal’s talk show, stating, “It was neither easy nor very difficult. It was important to face and understand it. You couldn’t be too casual.”
She also shared how her understanding of both Hinduism and Islam grew over time. Her husband, Mansoor, famously known as Tiger Pataudi, suggested the name Ayesha for their child. Although the families eventually supported the union, society at the time was less accepting.
In a past interview with Barkha Dutt, Sharmila recalled receiving threatening telegrams before the wedding. The messages warned that “bullets would be fired.” Despite concerns, the wedding and reception took place peacefully. Sharmila and Mansoor’s marriage went on to become one of India’s most iconic love stories.
The couple had three children: Saif Ali Khan, Soha Ali Khan, and Saba Pataudi. Mansoor passed away in 2011, leaving behind a rich royal legacy now carried forward by Saif. Following in their parents’ footsteps, both Saif and Soha chose partners from different faiths, continuing the family tradition of defying social conventions.
Soha Ali Khan’s reflections highlight not only her mother’s courage but also the enduring impact of Sharmila Tagore’s choices on the next generation of the Pataudi family.
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