Aamir Khan says he is a 'red flag', recalls the time when he made ex-wife Kiran Rao cry

Known across the industry as Bollywood’s “Mr. Perfectionist,” Aamir Khan has long captivated audiences with his dedication to his craft. Yet beyond the silver screen, the acclaimed actor has begun to reveal a more vulnerable side, one shaped by emotional lessons and deeply personal realizations. In a recent conversation with podcaster Raj Shamani, Khan opened up about the emotional turmoil that once defined his relationships, especially with filmmaker Kiran Rao, his former wife.

Reflecting on their marriage, Aamir acknowledged how his relentless focus on work had often overshadowed the emotional needs of those around him. He described being a workaholic as one of the most damaging aspects of his personality. His intense professional drive often led him to disconnect from emotions, especially when hurt.

During emotionally challenging times, he admitted to shutting himself off completely—avoiding conversations and retreating inward. This pattern became particularly evident during a disagreement with Kiran. Although the argument’s details faded from memory, its emotional impact endured. Despite sharing a bed and a home, he distanced himself emotionally, offering only minimal responses. This emotional withdrawal eventually left Kiran in tears, desperately trying to bridge the silence, unsure how to reach him.

Khan recognized that this behavior stemmed from emotional immaturity and an inability to process pain in healthy ways. At the root of his silence, he confessed, was ego—a defense mechanism that made it nearly impossible for him to take the first step toward reconciliation. Though he wanted to heal the rift, his internal struggle kept him frozen. It was only later, through therapy and introspection, that he came to terms with these behavioral patterns, which he now identifies as red flags in his emotional life.

His introspection extended beyond his relationship with Kiran Rao. He also revisited the early days of his first marriage to Reena Dutta. Aamir revealed that he married Reena impulsively after knowing her for just four months. At 21, with Reena only 19, the decision was driven more by youthful emotion than rational thought. Looking back, he admitted that they should have taken more time before committing, as youthful passion often blinds one to future consequences.

Currently, Aamir is involved with Gauri Spratt, a Mumbai-based salon owner and a longtime acquaintance. Although they have known each other for over 25 years, their bond developed more recently into a close relationship.

Professionally, Aamir is set to return to cinema with Sitaare Zameen Par, a spiritual successor to his 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. The film, a remake of the Spanish movie Champions, draws inspiration from a real-life basketball team of athletes with intellectual disabilities.