NEW DELHI: Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, known for his nuanced performances and thoughtful life choices, recently spoke in an exclusive interview with Rohan Dua, Executive Editor of The New Indian, about his children and his parenting style — one that prioritizes freedom, individuality, and simplicity over luxury or convention.
“I’m a very easy father,” Aamir said. “My relationship with my children is more like that of a friend. I’m relaxed. I guide them, but I never try to mould them into something they’re not. Every person has their personality, and that should be respected.”
Aamir shared a revealing anecdote about his eldest son, Junaid Khan, who, despite working in films, continues to live a simple life. “Junaid has already done two films, but he still hasn’t bought a car. He uses public transport. He books an Ola or an Uber when needed. Once, when he was in Kerala and had to meet a friend in Bangalore, I asked him what flight he was taking. He replied, ‘No flight — I’m going by ST bus, in a sleeper coach overnight.’ That’s Junaid.”
Aamir said he once suggested Junaid get a car for convenience. “I told him, ‘Beta, get yourself a car.’ But he said, ‘Why should I? I don’t need one.’ It’s his choice. We’ve never been a materialistic family. Neither Reena, Kiran, nor I have raised our children to value things over people.”
The actor also recalled how Junaid stayed with his maternal grandparents for two weeks during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, personally cooking and caring for them when no help was available. “That made me really proud. He didn’t think twice.”
Aamir added that his three children — Junaid, Ira, and Azad — all embody sensitivity, simplicity, and empathy. “They never ask for flashy holidays or big demands. Every year, we just go to our house in Panchgani. That’s enough for them.”
