Director Kiran Rao Discusses The Reasons Why She And Aamir Khan Parted Ways

Filmmaker Kiran Rao has been gaining a lot of popularity lately for her directorial venture Laapata Ladies. In an interview with Brut India, she recently opened up about her 15 year marriage and recent divorce from Aamir Khan.

Speaking about marriage, she laid emphasis on individuality and identity which women often tend to lose after getting married. It is an important subject that is not spoken about often.

“Aamir and I lived together for about a year before we got married, and honestly, we did it more because of parents. At that time too, we knew that it’s a great institution if you can function as an individual as well as a couple within that institution,” said Kiran while talking to Brut India.

Kiran explains that marriage can have a negative influence, as many women feel trapped in marriages.

She explained, “I think the thing that we don’t talk about enough is how marriage tends to stifle especially women. So, how you know you could perhaps find a way to be more yourself within it, is I think something that is up for debate and discussion.”

The process of divorce wasn’t turbulent, she admits, as she took her own time to separate. She didn’t have to worry as both of them were strong and continue to share a strong relationship even after divorce.

“We are very connected to each other; we deeply respect and love each other, so that hasn’t changed, and so, therefore, I was not worried. I knew that I needed my space. I wanted to live independently, and I needed that to grow myself. I felt that it was for my own growth and Aamir acknowledged that as well and supported that. So that actually really helped. It wasn’t because we don’t care for each other or have any problems or deep disagreements, so I didn’t fear divorce”, she explained.

The couple have set a good example of an amicable post-divorce couple. They’ve maintained a cordial relationship after the separation and continue to remain the best of friends. Aamir and Kiran co-parent their son Azad and they are also working together. Kiran is focussing on her growth while Aamir is supporting her decision. ‘Laapata Ladies’ has been produced by Aamir Khan’s production unit. They ensured that the transition was smooth for the sake of their son Azad.

‘Laapata Ladies’ is a comedy drama about a newly married husband who loses his traditionally veiled wife in a train, in a case of mistaken identity. He brings back another veiled wife unbeknownst to either party. The film stars Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Chhaya Kadam and Ravi Kishan.