Actor Zayed Khan has addressed the criticism surrounding the funeral rites of his late mother, Zarine Khan, saying the family does not feel the need to justify its decision. Speaking about the matter months after her passing, Zayed said, “Our first religion at home is humanity,” and described his family as secular, adding that religion is a deeply personal matter.
It was her last wish
Explaining why Zarine Khan’s last rites were performed according to Hindu traditions, Zayed said the decision was rooted in his mother’s final wish. He recalled that she had once said that if she ever died, she wanted her ashes to flow in a beautiful river and wanted to be free. He added that when a mother expresses a final wish, the family honours it, regardless of what others may say.
Family’s decision had sparked debate
Zarine Khan passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Her funeral in Mumbai drew attention after Zayed performed the last rites according to Hindu customs, prompting online debate. In an earlier note, daughter Farah Khan Ali described Zarine as “Born a Parsi, married as a Muslim, and cremated according to Hindu rites,” framing her life as one that transcended religious labels.
An emotional farewell
Videos from the funeral showed a visibly emotional Zayed carrying out the rituals. Several members of the film industry attended to pay their respects, including Hrithik Roshan, Rajat Bedi, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Esha Deol, Zoya Akhtar, Bobby Deol and Jackie Shroff.
By – Manoj