In June 2024, Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha and actor Zaheer Iqbal tied the knot after a seven-year-long relationship. Their union, solemnized under the Special Marriage Act, has been a topic of discussion, especially concerning their interfaith dynamics. Addressing these conversations, Sonakshi recently opened up about their decision to marry without religious conversion, emphasizing mutual respect and understanding as the foundation of their relationship.​

Sonakshi highlighted that religion was never a focal point in their relationship. She shared, “We were not looking at religion. Here are two people in love with each other who want to get married, and that’s exactly what we did.” This perspective underscores their commitment to each other, transcending religious affiliations.

The couple has seamlessly integrated their individual traditions into their shared life. Sonakshi elaborated, “They follow certain traditions at their house; I follow mine at my house. He comes and sits in my Diwali puja; I go and sit in their niyaz. That’s all that matters.” This mutual participation reflects their dedication to honoring each other’s cultural practices without compromising personal beliefs.

Opting for a civil ceremony under the Special Marriage Act allowed both Sonakshi and Zaheer to retain their religious identities. Sonakshi explained, “The best way to get married was the Special Marriage Act, where I, as a Hindu woman, do not need to change my religion, and he, as a Muslim man, can remain a Muslim man.” This choice highlights their desire to prioritize love and companionship over societal expectations. ​

Discussing her family’s reaction, Sonakshi revealed that her father, veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha, was supportive of their decision. She recounted, “He told me that my happiness mattered most to him and asked us to go ahead.” This affirmation from her family played a crucial role in reinforcing their decision to marry without altering their religious beliefs.

Post their wedding, the couple faced various speculations and unsolicited opinions regarding their interfaith marriage. Sonakshi addressed these rumors by stating, “There was never a question of conversion. We love each other, and that was enough.” This candid response aims to dispel misconceptions and emphasize that their relationship is built on love, respect, and mutual understanding, rather than religious conformity. ​

Sonakshi and Zaheer’s journey exemplifies how love can transcend religious and cultural boundaries. Their story serves as an inspiration for many, showcasing that mutual respect and understanding are paramount in a relationship. By choosing to honor each other’s traditions without imposing changes, they have set a precedent for embracing diversity within personal relationships.

Credit: This article is based on information from Hindustan Times, Siasat, and Times of India.

Key Highlights:

• Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal married under the Special Marriage Act in June 2024, maintaining their respective religious identities.​Siasat+2ARY News+2Bollywood Shaadis+2
• The couple emphasizes that religion was never a focal point in their relationship, focusing instead on mutual love and respect.​
• They actively participate in each other’s cultural traditions, fostering a harmonious interfaith marriage.​
• Sonakshi’s family, including her father Shatrughan Sinha, has been supportive of their union.