Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar’s journey together is one marked by both professional collaboration and personal challenges. Having met through work, the couple faced their share of scepticism and criticism before ultimately tying the knot in 2022. As public figures, they have navigated the tricky waters of public scrutiny and online trolling, especially during the early days of their romance.
Farhan Akhtar and Shibani Dandekar on navigating public scrutiny after interfaith marriage: “People used to say these two things to me– ‘love jihad and gold digger’”
In a recent conversation on Rhea Chakraborty’s podcast, Chapter 2, Shibani opened up about the difficulties she encountered, particularly the unkind labels that surfaced once she began dating Farhan. She reflected on how she was often labelled a “gold digger” and faced questions like, “Who was she before her marriage with Farhan Akhtar?”
Shibani articulated her perspective on handling negativity in the digital space, saying, “I think social media comments should only strike a chord with you if there is any kind of truth to it that you believe, and that impacts you somehow. If there is no basis for that comment, or whatever that people are saying, how can something that is so untrue affect you?”
Recalling her experiences, she shared, “On a daily basis, when I started my relationship with Farhan, people used to say these two things to me– ‘love jihad and gold digger’. What am I supposed to do with that? I am not going to cry myself to bed because people are saying these things.” Shibani emphasized the reality of her marriage, stating, “He does come from a Muslim home, and I do come from a Hindu home, and we got married, and we are very happy with our marriage. That’s the reality of our situation. So, people can say whatever they want about us; it is what it is.”
Addressing the dismissive comments about her past, she remarked, “I get comments like, ‘Who is she?’, ‘Who was she before marrying Farhan Akhtar?’ Am I going to believe some random person or am I going to believe my own journey? There is also a difference between what is true and what someone is saying to get at you.” Her reflections point to the importance of self-awareness and understanding the motivations behind negative remarks.
Shibani further elaborated on the nature of online criticism, noting, “I can get on my phone right now and I can make 15 nasty comments on random pages for random people for no reason other than I want to. It’s not up to us to figure out why these people are doing what they are doing because we will never get that.” This insight highlights the arbitrary nature of online trolling and emphasizes the importance of personal resilience.
The couple celebrated their union on February 19, 2022, in a close-knit ceremony at Farhan’s farmhouse in Khandala, surrounded by family and friends. A reception followed at his residence in Bandra, marking the beginning of their new life together.
In an earlier discussion with Indian Express, Farhan reflected on the evolution of his relationship with social media, stating, “There was a time it was tough and mattered, but now it doesn’t. I’m not on social media to seek validation; I’m there to share the joy of what I love doing.” Farhan’s commitment to positivity resonates with Shibani’s approach as well. She expressed, “Absolutely, it can be tough, but we choose to rise above it. We believe in the power of kindness and try to block out the negativity.”
On the work front, Farhan Akhtar will next star in 120 Bahadur. He will also direct Don 3 and Jee Le Zaraa.
ALSO READ: Farhan Akhtar to play Param Vir Chakra recipient Major Shaitan Singh in 120 Bahadur; shoot commences to tell the tale of Battle of Rezang La
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