Aamir Khan has landed into a trouble following his marriage to longtime partner Gauri Spratt. Days after the Bollywood’s ‘Perfectionist’ exchanged voews in an intimate ceremony, a Muslim cleric reportedly issued a fatwa against him. He objected to the actor’s interfaith marriage and claimed that the wedding was not permissible under his interpretation of Islamic law.
What Is a Fatwa?
A fatwa is a non-binding legal opinion or religious ruling issued by a qualified Islamic scholar (mufti). It majorly has matters relating to Islamic law (Sharia). Contrary to popular belief, a fatwa is not an arrest warrant or a legally enforceable order. On the other hand, it serves as guidance for followers who seek religious clarification on a particular issue.
Fatwas can cover a range of topics. It could be from daily religious practices and financial matters to marriage, inheritance and ethical questions. While some Muslims may choose to follow a fatwa, it does not carry legal authority under Indian law.
Why Has Aamir Khan Been Issued a Fatwa?
According to reports, the fatwa was issued by Maulana Ibrahim Hussain. He is the Shahi Chief Mufti of the Muslim Personal Darul Ifta. The cleric objected to Aamir Khan’s marriage with Gauri Spratt. He stated that under his interpretation of Sharia, a Muslim man should not marry a non-Muslim woman unless she embraces Islam.
The cleric described such marriages as impermissible and argued that they are against Islamic teachings. His remarks came after Aamir and Gauri reportedly married under the Special Marriage Act. This secular law allows interfaith couples to marry without either partner converting.
The Controversy Explained
The row quickly escalated beyond the religious ruling. Some political leaders and right-wing groups criticised Aamir Khan’s marriage, and linked it to the “love jihad” narrative. Social media also witnessed heated debates, and supporters defended the actor’s right to choose his life partner.
Aamir, however, dismissed the allegations and clarified that religion has never dictated his relationships. He pointed out that all three of his marriages were registered civil unions and emphasised that none of his wives converted their religion for marriage. The actor also said his family believes in inclusivity and expressed disappointment over attempts to communalise his personal life.
Aamir Khan’s Third Marriage
Aamir Khan, 61, married longtime partner Gauri Spratt in a private ceremony at his Mumbai residence on July 5. The couple opted for a simple registered marriage attended only by close family members and friends.
Before marrying Gauri, Aamir was married to Reena Dutta, with whom he has two children, Junaid and Ira. Following their divorce, he married filmmaker Kiran Rao in 2005. The former couple welcomed son Azad through surrogacy and announced their separation in 2021 while continuing to co-parent.
