Bollywood actor Zayed Khan has opened up about the heartfelt decision behind his mother Zarine Khan’s Hindu cremation, addressing public curiosity and criticism.
Zayed Khan has spoken candidly about the recent passing of his mother, Zarine Khan, addressing questions surrounding her Hindu cremation despite his own Muslim faith. In an exclusive interview with Zoom, Zayed opened up about honoring his mother’s last wishes, her philosophy of humanity, and the criticism that followed the ceremony.
Zarine Khan, a beloved former Bollywood actress, passed away at the age of 81 on November 7, 2025. Her final rites were performed by her children Sussanne Khan, Simone Arora, Farah Ali Khan, and Zayed Khan – in accordance with Hindu traditions, reflecting her personal desire rather than religious convention.
Zayed recalled an emotional moment when his mother, by a serene river, expressed her wish to have her ashes released into the water. “I want to be free,” she had said. The actor stressed, “Whatever your mother’s last wishes are, they will be honored. It doesn’t matter what others think.”
Speaking about his family’s approach to faith, Zayed emphasized secular values, saying, “Insaaniyat (humanity) is our household’s primary faith. Religion is deeply personal, not a hierarchy of better or worse.
We don’t feel the need to justify our choices to anyone.” He also reflected on the power of humanity to overcome negativity, fear, and anger, sharing life lessons with his children about shaping a better future.
Farah Khan, Zayed’s elder sister, had previously released a statement describing Zarine Khan’s extraordinary life. “Born a Parsi, married a Muslim, and cremated following Hindu customs, she embodied humanity. Her philosophy was ‘Forgive and Forget,’ and she was the glue that held our family together,” Farah said.
The family united to scatter Zarine’s ashes in her cherished river, honoring her legacy of compassion, acceptance, and love for all, proving that humanity transcends religious boundaries.