My Name Is Khan

Rizwan Khan, a gentle man with Asperger's syndrome, grows up in Borivali and marries Mandira, a Hindu single mother, in San Francisco. The couple builds a life together and dreams of belonging in a country that has become their new home. After the September 11 attacks, Rizwan is pulled aside by airport security at LAX and questioned as if he were a threat, simply for his faith and his diagnosis. His detention strains the marriage and puts the couple on a cross-country trek to clear his name and reclaim their place in a world quick to judge. The story grounds its drama in small acts of kindness and stubborn resilience. The film blends humor with social critique as Rizwan handles prejudice, faith, and family bonds.

Directed by Karan Johar, the film pairs screenwriters Niranjan Iyengar and Shibani Bathija to tell Rizwan and Mandira's cross cultural story set against the fear and bias that followed 9/11. It features Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in the leads.

Its worldwide gross reached $42,345,360 on a budget of $12,000,000, signaling strong international interest in a drama about family, love and prejudice. The film enjoyed a steady box office run across multiple markets, validating its cross cultural appeal.

The film sparked conversations about Islamophobia and interfaith families, and Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol drew attention for a performance that foregrounded dignity and perseverance. It helped broaden reach of Hindi cinema by addressing audiences with a sensitive, timely message. Its music and performances became talking points at screenings.

Critics praised the film for its humane storytelling and the way it balances romance with social critique. It invites viewers to consider stereotypes, biases, and the costs of misunderstanding while offering a hopeful message about belonging and responsibility to family. The performances of Khan and Kajol anchor that tone.