Renowned filmmaker Kiran Rao, in a candid conversation on Kareena Kapoor’s popular chat show “What Women Want,” delved into the intricacies and evolving dynamics of co-parenting her son Azad with Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. Since their amicable separation in 2021, both Rao and Khan have navigated the challenging yet rewarding journey of raising their son together, albeit with distinct approaches to their roles as parents.
Reflecting on the progress made thus far, Kiran Rao expressed her belief that co-parenting has become “much smoother” over time. This evolution, she implied, stems not only from their individual efforts but also from a shared understanding of what is best for Azad. However, Rao was forthright in acknowledging that, despite improvements, Aamir Khan tends to distance himself from school-related matters concerning Azad, a sentiment she jokingly attributed to a majority of fathers.
“It has been quite a journey,” said Kiran Rao. “Parenting, by itself, is a challenge, and when you add the element of co-parenting post-separation, it takes the challenge to another level. Aamir is a wonderful father, though incredibly busy with his professional commitments. Even during our marriage, the primary parenting often fell on me due to his hectic schedule. But since our separation and subsequent divorce, I think Aamir has come to realize the importance of being more present in Azad’s life. Living separately requires more intentional planning and conscious decisions regarding child-rearing.”
Kiran Rao elaborated on their living arrangement, which facilitates their co-parenting effort. Currently residing in homes that are just a floor apart, this proximity has undoubtedly eased their transitions into shared parenting roles. Rao’s mention of this arrangement highlights the practical aspects of making co-parenting feasible, allowing Azad to enjoy quality time with both parents, thus ensuring a smoother experience as he ages.
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“As parents, our primary focus remains on Azad’s happiness. Thankfully, our living arrangement allows us to be close to each other, which has been beneficial in maintaining a cohesive family dynamic for Azad. He loves spending time with his dad more than ever,” Rao remarked, showcasing a positive outlook on their current situation.
Rao’s light-hearted admission regarding Aamir’s detachment from school-related activities struck a universal chord. “I do believe it’s a general thing with dads—they shy away from anything to do with school. It’s always been, ‘We’ll deal with other things; just leave the school stuff to someone else,'” she chuckled, underscoring a common familial dynamic that many can relate to.
Beyond personal revelations, Kiran Rao continues to make significant strides professionally, particularly with the recent success of her critically acclaimed film ‘Laapataa Ladies.’ Chosen as India’s official entry for the Oscars, Rao’s film underscores her commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling in Indian cinema. Her recent visit to the London School of Economics, where she engaged in a thoughtful dialogue with Professor Shakuntala Banaji and Sanam Arora, Founder and Chairperson of the National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU), exemplifies her dedication to inspiring change through cinema.
During her conversation at the LSE, Rao shared insights into her journey as a filmmaker, highlighting the intersection of art and social change. Her narrative-centric approach aims to challenge norms and reflect societal issues, a commitment mirrored both in her professional ethos and her personal evolution as a co-parent.
Kiran Rao’s reflections on her co-parenting experience with Aamir Khan serve as a testament to modern parenting dynamics, especially in the context of high-profile, busy careers. Her ability to balance her professional ambitions with personal responsibilities, all while maintaining a harmonious relationship with Aamir Khan, exemplifies the essence of adaptability and shared responsibility in contemporary family structures. As Azad continues to grow, he benefits from the love and attention of both parents, embodying the hope shared by Rao and Khan for a future where family unity remains a priority, no matter the personal circumstances.
