The relationship dynamics between Gauri Khan and Priyanka Chopra have long been a topic of speculation, especially given past rumors about Priyanka’s alleged connection with Shah Rukh Khan. While the media had once been abuzz with whispers of an affair between Priyanka and SRK during the filming of Don 2, the two eventually distanced themselves. However, Priyanka subtly hinted at her past relationship with Shah Rukh in an old interview, where she flaunted a jacket that fans believed belonged to the superstar. Now, resurfaced photos of Gauri Khan and Priyanka at public events suggest that all was not well between them.
Gauri Khan Appears Uncomfortable Around Priyanka Chopra in Old Photographs
Recently, rare images of Gauri Khan and Priyanka Chopra at social gatherings have emerged, shedding light on the tension between them. In one particular picture, Priyanka, dazzling in a red gown, was seen leaning towards Gauri, seemingly attempting to showcase camaraderie. However, Gauri’s body language suggested unease rather than warmth. The photos also featured Sussanne Khan seated beside Shah Rukh Khan and Arjun Rampal.
Another striking image, presumably from an award function, captured an awkward moment. In the picture, Shah Rukh Khan was seen kissing Priyanka’s hand as she smiled, but Gauri, sitting between them, appeared visibly displeased by the gesture. The visible discomfort on Gauri’s face fueled speculation that she was not pleased with Priyanka’s close association with her husband.
Rumors and Their Impact on Shah Rukh and Gauri’s Marriage
For years, Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan have been considered one of Bollywood’s most enduring couples. Their love story, which began long before SRK achieved superstardom, has been admired by many. However, the rumors linking him to Priyanka Chopra created a wave of controversy that reportedly affected their relationship. While neither Shah Rukh nor Gauri publicly addressed the impact of these speculations on their marriage, insiders claimed that Gauri had taken steps to ensure Priyanka was kept at a distance from their inner circle.
It was also reported that some of Shah Rukh’s close friends, including filmmaker Karan Johar, distanced themselves from Priyanka following the rumors. Karan’s cryptic social media posts at the time were widely interpreted as indirect digs at Priyanka, further fueling the controversy.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Response to Affair Rumors with Priyanka Chopra
Speculations about Shah Rukh and Priyanka’s alleged romance intensified during the filming of Don, as they were often spotted together at events, parties, and nightclubs. An old video resurfaced where SRK was directly asked about the rumors, leaving many fans disheartened, as they had always viewed him as devoted to Gauri.
During a media interaction alongside Katrina Kaif, Shah Rukh addressed the controversy. Expressing his disappointment, he stated:
“What bothers me the most is that a woman who has worked with me is being questioned and not treated with the respect I have for her and all women. I find that quite disrespectful.”
He went on to offer an apology, clarifying that his regret wasn’t due to any wrongdoing on his part but because Priyanka was a dear friend. He elaborated:
“I’m extremely sorry about this—not because of anything I’ve done, but because she is my friend. She has a significant place in my heart and will always remain there.”
Despite his clarification, many believed that the tension between Gauri and Priyanka was undeniable. Over time, Priyanka shifted her career focus to Hollywood, and any association with Shah Rukh Khan faded into the past.
Priyanka Chopra’s Hollywood Success and Life Beyond Bollywood
Following the controversy, Priyanka Chopra gradually distanced herself from Bollywood and pursued a successful career in Hollywood. She made a mark in the West with projects like Quantico, Baywatch, and multiple music collaborations. In 2018, she married American singer Nick Jonas, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Malti Marie, in 2022.
While Priyanka has occasionally spoken about her struggles in Bollywood, she has never directly addressed the rumors with Shah Rukh Khan. However, in a past interview, she mentioned experiencing professional setbacks and hinted at people in the industry working against her, which many believed was a reference to the fallout from the alleged affair scandal.
