Designing Dreams, Producing Hits: The Many Faces of Gauri Khan

When we hear the name “Gauri Khan,” often the first thought is of Shah Rukh Khan’s elegant wife. But behind that familiar pairing lies a woman who has quietly, steadily, and creatively built her own world. On her birthday, it’s the perfect time to look past the spotlight and appreciate her journey from muse to mogul—an empire she crafted with vision, talent, and grit.

From Delhi Roots to Mumbai Dreams

Born as Gauri Chhibber on October 8, 1970, in New Delhi, she grew up in a middle-class family with strong values. She studied history at Lady Shri Ram College, and also did a short course in fashion design at NIFT. Early interests in art, fabrics, and aesthetics were more than hobbies—they were the seeds of what she would become.

She met Shah Rukh Khan years before his superstardom. The two married in 1991. For decades, she stood beside him—but she never merely remained in the shadows.

The Film Producer’s Pen: Red Chillies & Beyond

One of Gauri Khan’s boldest moves was stepping into film production. In 2002, she co-founded Red Chillies Entertainment with Shah Rukh Khan.  The banner emerged from their earlier venture, Dreamz Unlimited. Her first major production credit was Main Hoon Na, which went on to become a box office hit. Over the years, she has backed films like Om Shanti Om, My Name Is Khan, Chennai Express, Ra.One and more. Her role is not just titular—she is involved in decisions, strategy, branding, and creative direction. Her work in films makes her more than a producer; she is a stakeholder in storytelling, image, and the entertainment business.

Interior Designer & Style Architect

While films demand a public face, design allowed Gauri a different kind of expression—the language of space, color, texture, and light. She launched Gauri Khan Designs in 2017, a full-fledged interior and design studio. Her design journey, however, began earlier when she renovated her own home, Mannat, and began experimenting with decor, textures, and ambiance.

Her aesthetics have attracted high-profile clients, including Bollywood stars, fashion designers’ studios, and even the bar lounge at Antilia, the Ambani residence. She also transformed stores like Falguni & Shane Peacock’s Hyderabad flagship and celebrity homes, such as those of Sidharth Malhotra and Jacqueline Fernandez. Her work has been featured in design magazines, and she’s cited among India’s top designers. In 2025, she expanded her presence by opening a new experience centre in Delhi, bridging her roots and her creative ambitions.

Balancing Brand, Risk & Reinvention

A common thread in her ventures is the reinvention of herself. She once launched a fashion line with Satya Paul called “Cocktails & Dreams.” She also curated lighting collections in collaboration with brands like TISVA. Her home is often a live showpiece, a creative lab where design ideas are tested.

Behind every beautiful project are risks. The shift from being known as “SRK’s wife” to “Gauri Khan, creative entrepreneur” required resilience. Her ventures sometimes attract scrutiny, but she has navigated them with poise and discretion. She often credits her supportive family and a clear sense of what she wants.