Sharmila Tagore Reflects on Embracing Islam and Changing Her Name for Her Marriage to Tiger Pataudi

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/27th August 2024

Sharmila Tagore, the renowned Bollywood actress, made headlines not only for her illustrious film career but also for her transformative personal journey when she married Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. Their relationship, which began as a romance between two people from different religious backgrounds, culminated in a groundbreaking inter-faith marriage, a concept that was relatively uncommon at the time.

In a candid interview with Simi Garewal, Sharmila Tagore discussed the profound personal change she underwent to marry Pataudi. She recounted her decision to convert to Islam and adopt a new name, Ayesha, as part of her commitment to their union. Reflecting on her conversion, Sharmila admitted that while the process was neither straightforward nor exceedingly challenging, it required a deep understanding and respect. “You couldn’t be very flippant about it,” she noted, emphasizing that the decision was made with serious consideration rather than casual indifference. Sharmila revealed that prior to her conversion, she had not been particularly religious, but the experience expanded her understanding of both Hinduism and Islam.

During the same interview, Sharmila touched upon her relationship with her mother-in-law, Nawab Begum of Bhopal, Sajida Sultan. She recalled feeling nervous during their first meeting but found that their relationship developed into one of mutual respect. Sharmila described the initial conversation with her mother-in-law, where Sajida Sultan inquired about Sharmila’s feelings towards her son, Tiger. Sharmila’s honest response was met with understanding, and over time, their relationship grew into one of “very healthy mutual respect.”

The couple’s decision to marry was not without its challenges. In a separate conversation with Barkha Dutt on Mojo Story, Sharmila revealed the intense scrutiny and threats they faced. The media and public reaction included ominous telegrams sent to her parents in Kolkata, threatening violence in response to their marriage. Despite the tension, Sharmila and Pataudi managed to navigate these difficulties, ensuring that their wedding and subsequent reception proceeded without incident.

Sharmila Tagore and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi enjoyed a marriage that lasted over 43 years, a testament to their enduring bond and mutual respect. Their relationship remains a poignant example of love overcoming societal barriers, and Sharmila’s reflections on her conversion and marriage continue to resonate as a significant personal and cultural narrative.

Through her story, Sharmila Tagore not only highlights her personal evolution but also sheds light on the broader issues of religious tolerance and the strength of love in bridging cultural divides. Her journey from a prominent actress to a supportive partner in a groundbreaking inter-faith marriage underscores the transformative power of personal commitment and respect.