‘I LET MY WORK SPEAK FOR ME’
Gauri Khan says she is a shy girl and is happy doing what she does best — juggling the many hats she wears
Actor Shah Rukh Khan’s wife, Gauri Khan, has proved her critics wrong time and again. Not only has she carved a niche for herself in the industry as a leading film producer, she has also made a mark as a successful interior and fashion designer. We speak to the 44-yearold about her personal style statement, how she manages so many roles, and more.
From producing films to designing interiors and clothes, how do you manage it all?
Even before I started designing, I often sketched. When you are passionate about something, you don’t need external motivation to work towards achieving it.
Does Shah Rukh take an active interest in your professional pursuits?
He is always supportive of whatever I do. I remember, when I had launched my interior store, he reacted to the space, saying that it was too small. Personally, I think it’s about how the place makes you feel, and about the vibe of the space. But he now wants to buy me a larger space, which is more like a showroom.
Does the balancing act ever become hard due to family commitments?
Of course, it can get extremely erratic from time to time. But the key here is to know how to prioritise your commitments, and make optimum use of the time you give to everything you do.
You didn’t start your design career very early in life. What prompted you to take it up when you decided to give it a shot much later in life?
It was when I was working on my own house that I developed an interest in interiors. After working on a few projects, I realised that I was really passionate about designing. And that’s where it all began.
You tend to maintain a low profile when it comes to media and publicity. Why is that?
I let my work speak for me. While I’m really proactive when it comes to managing my projects, I am a shy person.
Shah Rukh is always supportive of whatever I do... he wants to buy me a larger space, which is more like a showroom The key is to know how to prioritise your commitments, and make optimum use of the time you give to everything you do
How would you define your style?
My personal style is very comfortable and feminine. I adore saris. I feel they’re very easy to carry. They’re not only sexy and graceful, but one can also style them the way they like best.
You recently designed a collection for Satya Paul’s 30th anniversary. As a businesswoman, what’s next on the road for you?
You can’t put a limit to growth. There are a lot of areas that I haven’t ventured into, and I look forward to making the most of everything that comes my way. My first store has taken off successfully, and I hope to do plenty of collaborations — be it in interior design or in fashion.
There are a lot of areas that I have not ventured into, and I look forward to making the most of everything that comes my way Gauri Khan, producerdesigner