‘I believe in Islam and Sanatan Dharma’: ‘Bade Acche Lagte Hain’ actor Chahatt Khanna denies forced conversion

Claims of Misinterpretation

In an interview with Subhojit Ghosh, Khanna said her statements in past interviews have often been taken out of context.

“My words are always twisted and misinterpreted,” she said.

On Conversion and Clarification

Speaking on a YouTube channel, Khanna addressed claims around her conversion, clarifying that she was not forced to convert to Islam after her second marriage.

“I don’t have any hatred. I am a very secular person. I celebrate Eid as well as Diwali. I had converted to Islam on my own wish. I was not forced to convert, I haven’t said it ever,” she said.

She added, “Yes, I believe in Islam and Sanatan Dharma, which is my own. I am blessed to be born in Sanatan but that doesn’t mean I don’t believe in any other religion. I believe in Christ. So I am a very secular and secure person.”

Photo: Chahatt Khanna/Instagram

Dealing With Public Perception

Opening up about negativity associated with her name, Khanna said she was initially affected but grew stronger over time.

“Initially I used to get disheartened, scared, sad and wonder what’s happening to me? My name is getting spoiled. Some people told me that I would struggle to get work as my name was associated with a bad light,” she said.

“My confidence grew with time as I got busy with my work and gained knowledge about various aspects of life, and the temporary things in my life turned insignificant to me.”

Personal Life and Marriages

Khanna was first married to businessman Bharat Narsinghani in 2006, but the marriage ended within a few months. She later alleged physical and emotional abuse, leading to their separation and divorce.

She remarried Farhan Mirza in 2013, during which time she converted to Islam. The couple has two daughters together.

However, the relationship later turned turbulent, and in 2018, she filed for divorce, accusing Mirza of sexual and mental harassment.

Following her divorce, Khanna reverted to Hinduism and has since been raising her daughters as a single mother.