Film score composer and musician Ismail Darbar has sparked a debate after making candid and controversial remarks about his expectations from his family, specifically concerning his daughter-in-law, actor Gauahar Khan, and her career after marriage and motherhood.
In a recent interview, Darbar contrasted Gauahar’s decision to work with the choice made by his wife, Ayesha Darbar, highlighting a difference in family values.
Comparison with Wife Ayesha Darbar
Ismail Darbar praised his wife for prioritizing family over her career, drawing a direct comparison to Gauahar’s working life.
He stated, “The greatest thing my wife Ayesha did was stop working for her child’s sake. She was making ₹5 lakh a month through shows at the time, and was also getting acting offers. But she never turned around and said that she wants to sing or perform.”
While acknowledging that Gauahar has a “wonderful relationship” with his son, Zaid Darbar, and is a “wonderful mother,” he made it clear that his personal expectations are traditional.
Gauahar’s Reputation and Traditional Views
Darbar also addressed his traditional background and the responsibility he feels for Gauahar’s reputation as a member of his family.
“Look, I come from a backward family,” he said, adding that his family avoids watching “sensuous” scenes in movies even today. He added, “Gauahar is a part of our family now, we are responsible for her reputation.”
However, the composer stopped short of ordering her to quit her profession, stating that the right to stop her work belongs only to his son, Zaid. He concluded by asserting his firm boundaries: “I know that I will not be able to tolerate what I see, and if I am not able to tolerate what I see, I will confront them.”
Gauahar Khan married Zaid Darbar in 2020. They welcomed their first son, Zehaan, in 2023 and their second son in September of this year.