Sonakshi Sinha is celebrating more than just Ganesh Chaturthi this year. The 37-year-old actress, who recently tied the knot with fellow actor Zaheer Iqbal, is embracing her first major festival as a married woman. In doing so, she has also quietly addressed the negativity and trolling that has followed their inter-faith marriage.
The couple, who got married on June 23 in an intimate ceremony, has been subjected to online hate due to their differing religious backgrounds. However, during this Ganesh Chaturthi, the couple chose to share a joyful moment with their fans, showcasing unity and respect for each other’s traditions.
On Sunday, Sonakshi took to Instagram to post a video of her and Zaheer performing Ganesh aarti at Arpita Khan Sharma’s lavish Ganpati celebrations. The post, which the couple shared jointly, carried a heartfelt message: “Love grows in respect when a couple honours each other’s beliefs in true harmony… Our first Ganpati after shaadi.”
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The video quickly garnered positive reactions, with fans pouring in support. One admirer wrote, “This is what I like—accepting and embracing each other’s religion and the rituals and ignoring the world.”
For the celebration, Sonakshi chose a stunning teal blue anarkali adorned with intricate silver zardozi and hand embroidery in a classic jaal design. Zaheer complemented her in a blue and white kurta, exuding a festive and elegant vibe.
A Love Story That Defies Boundaries
Sonakshi and Zaheer’s love story spans over six years, starting on June 23, 2017, when they first met through mutual connections. It was none other than Salman Khan, a close friend of Zaheer’s father, Iqbal Ratansi, who introduced them. Interestingly, it was while working together on Double XL, a film co-produced by Huma Qureshi, that Sonakshi and Zaheer’s relationship grew stronger.
Their decision to get married on June 23, 2024—precisely seven years after they first met—added a sentimental touch to their love story. Following the intimate wedding, they hosted a grand reception at Bastian, Mumbai, attended by family, friends, and industry colleagues.
Silencing the Trolls with Harmony
The couple has faced harsh criticism and trolling for their inter-faith marriage, with many online detractors questioning their union. In the face of this, Sonakshi maintained her grace, even disabling comments on some of her social media posts. But Sonakshi and Zaheer’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebration sent a powerful message of love, respect, and acceptance.
