I let my work speak for me, says Gauri Khan

Gauri Khan has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood, as a leading film producer and has also made a mark as a successful interior and fashion designer. In this photo: Gauri Khan in a PS Kaftan from the AW 15 collection.

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan’s wife, Gauri Khan, has proved her critics wrong time and again. Not only has she carved a niche for herself in Bollywood, as a leading film producer, but she has also made a mark as a successful interior and fashion designer. Here, we speak to her about her personal style statement, how she manages to do so many things, and more.    

How would you define your style?My personal style is very comfortable and feminine. I adore saris. I feel they’re very easy to carry. They’re not only sexy and graceful, but you can also style them the way you like best.

From producing films to designing interiors and clothes — how do you manage it all?Even before I started designing, I often used to sketch. When you are passionate about something you don’t need external motivation to work towards achieving it.

Does this balancing act ever become difficult due to your family commitments?It can get extremely erratic from time to time. But the key here is to know how to prioritise your commitments, and make optimum use of the time you give to everything you do.

You didn’t start your design career very early in life. What prompted you to take it up when you did?It was when I was working on my own house that I developed an interest. After working on a few projects, I realised that I was really passionate about designing.

You tend to maintain a low profile when it comes to the media and publicity. Why is that?I let my work speak for me. While I’m really proactive when it comes to managing my projects, I am a shy person.

Does Shah Rukh Khan take an active interest in your professional pursuits?He is always supportive of whatever I do. I remember, when I had launched my interior store, he reacted to the space, saying that it was too small. Personally, I think it’s about how the place makes you feel, and about the vibe of the space. But he now wants to buy me a larger space.

You recently designed a collection for Satya Paul’s 30th anniversary. As a businesswoman, what’s next?You can’t put a limit to growth. There are a lot of areas that I haven’t ventured into, and I look forward to making the most of everything that comes my way. My first store has taken off, and I hope to do plenty of collaborations, be it in interior design or in fashion.

Gauri Khan on her personal style? 
I adore saris. I feel they’re very easy to carry. They’re not only sexy and graceful, but you can also style them the way you like best.

On maintaining a low profile?
While I’m really proactive when it comes to managing my projects, I am a shy person.

On how she maintains a work-life balance?
The key here is to know how to prioritise your commitments.