Aamir Khan credits Reena Dutta for Junaid and Ira’s upbringing: ‘Junaid travels in autos, wants to earn his car himself’

In a recent conversation with Kapil Sharma, Aamir Khan opened up about his son Junaid Khan’s career choices and the values that define his family. The actor made it clear that he has consciously stayed away from influencing his son’s professional path.

“As a father, he didn’t let me do anything for him. He doesn’t even like it if I interfere in his career,” Aamir said, adding that Junaid trained in theatre abroad and returned to India to audition independently—without revealing his identity. “Neither did I tell anyone he is my son, nor did he. He built his career on his own.”

Aamir also acknowledged the inherent pressure Junaid faces because of his lineage. “Because you are my son, it will be especially difficult for you. Everyone will compare you directly to me, so getting a fair chance won’t be easy,” he shared, recalling a conversation with him.

Reena’s upbringing and a father’s pride

Speaking about his children, Aamir credited his ex-wife Reena Dutta for their upbringing. “I feel very proud as a father—and the credit goes to Reena’s upbringing. Of course, I have contributed too—but both our children are very sensitive and kind-hearted. They value others and think about people. These are wonderful qualities.”

He went on to recount an incident during the COVID-19 pandemic that left a deep impression on him. “When Reena’s parents got COVID and were alone, before we could even decide what to do, Junaid had already reached there. He stayed with them for two weeks, cooked for them, washed their clothes and took care of them—without anyone asking him to.”

For Aamir, this reflected his son’s character. “He has a lot of love in him and a strong character. Seeing that makes me very proud.”

‘He travels in autos... he wants to earn it himself’

Aamir also spoke about Junaid’s grounded lifestyle, revealing that the young actor often chooses public transport over comfort.

“I’ve told him many times—buy a car. But he says, ‘When I need it, I’ll take it. First let me work, let me become something.’”

Referring to viral videos of Junaid travelling in autos, Aamir added, “He’s that kind of person. He doesn’t feel the need for these things right now.”

Lessons from family and finding balance

Reflecting on his own journey, Aamir admitted that his intense focus on work once came at the cost of family time. “During COVID, I realised I am very close to my family emotionally, but I didn’t give them enough time. I felt very guilty about that.”

He even considered quitting films altogether. “I had decided to stop acting, producing—everything—and spend my life with my family.”

However, it was his children who brought him back to balance. “Junaid and Ira told me—‘How long will you do this? We have our own lives too.’ They explained that life needs balance—you can work and still be with family.”


Today, Aamir says he is trying to live that balance.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”