Salim Khan recalls marrying Salma Khan, father-in-law’s only objection was his religion: 'My wife loved saat phere ritual'

Legendary writer Salim Khan, father of Salman Khan, recently opened up about his marriage with Salma Khan (born Sushila Charak) in a new interview. The couple tied the knot in 1964, but their union did not come without challenges. Salim revealed that Salma’s father initially objected to their marriage on the grounds of religion.

“Religion was the only objection”

Sharing details from the past, Salim Khan recalled how his father-in-law, who was a dentist and belonged to the Dogra community, had concerns about his faith.


“He had investigated my background when the matter of my wedding came about and respected the fact that I came from a good family and was well-educated. He candidly told me that my religion was his only objection. I assured him that even if we had disagreements or fights, my wife and I would certainly not have them because of our religions! We have been wedded now for 60 years!” he told Free Press Journal.

Why Salim and Salma had both rituals

When asked if Salma ever had reservations about the wedding, the veteran writer shared that his wife deeply cherished the saat phere ritual.

“My wife had loved the saat phere ritual and had seen her sister as well as cousin follow it. So I myself found a pandit in my locality aur phere lagwa liye. We had a nikaah too, which is essentially a ritual that ascertains that you are not marrying under pressure or force,” he explained.

A family that grew with love

Salim Khan married Salma Khan in 1964, and together they had four children—three sons, Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan, and a daughter, Alvira. In 1981, Salim tied the knot with actor Helen Richardson but chose not to divorce his first wife. Arpita Khan, who is married to actor Aayush Sharma, was adopted by Salim and Salma Khan.