Controversy Over Aamir Khan’s Third Marriage Highlights ‘Love Jihad’ Debate in Maharashtra

The recent commentary by Maharashtra minister Nitesh Rana that actor Aamir Khan is a “Love Jihad” brand ambassador because of his third marriage has reignited a heated debate across the state.

Rana’s remarks were met with swift rebuttal from Waris Pathan, former legislator and AIMIM spokesperson, who sarcastically suggested that if three marriages are permissible, a fourth should be allowed too. Pathan questioned the legitimacy of any authority that would prevent a consenting adult from marrying.

Highlighting the lack of public dissent, Pathan noted that Aamir’s first and second wives, his children, and even business leaders were present at his wedding ceremonies, indicating social acceptance.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar added that the decision to watch Aamir’s films rests with the audience, and that the actor’s Hindu spouse is conscious of his past relationships. Pednekar framed the matter as a private affair, while warning that Hindu women should not engage in repeated marriages.

The episode underscores how personal choices of public figures are increasingly being politicised under the banner of “Love Jihad,” prompting calls for the government to address the terminology rather than the individual.