Zarine Khan and Sanjay Khan: A Lifetime of Love and Challenges
Zarine Khan, wife of actor and filmmaker Sanjay Khan, passed away at the age of 81 on Friday. Known for her poise and loyalty, she gave up her modelling career when Sanjay asked her to choose between work and marriage. The couple remained together for nearly six decades, despite facing personal and professional turmoil.
Early Encounters and Courtship
Their story began like a scene from a film. Sanjay first met Zarine in Juhu, Mumbai, when he was 18 and she was only 13. He recalled being instantly struck by her eyes and later expressed a deep connection that began at that moment.
“We gazed into each other’s eyes and in that moment, I knew hers were the eyes of someone I wanted to spend the rest of my life with,” wrote Sanjay in his memoir The Best Mistakes of My Life.
After speaking, he proposed to her almost immediately. Zarine responded calmly, saying she would accept his proposal only if she felt the same way after a year. Sanjay admired her maturity and the wisdom she showed at such a young age. Their bond grew stronger, and they dated for six years before marrying.
Marriage and Enduring Trials
Once Sanjay became a popular star in the 1960s, rumors of his affair with Zeenat Aman tested their marriage. Despite the challenges and public scrutiny, Zarine chose to stand by her husband. The couple’s relationship endured through time, strengthened by their mutual history and devotion.
Family Life
Zarine and Sanjay raised four children together — Simone, Farah, Sussanne, and Zayed — and remained partners until her final days, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and love that spanned nearly sixty years.