Bollywood actor and producer Sohel Khan, brother of Salman Khan, opened up about the story behind naming his eldest son during a recent episode of the reality show Alliance hosted by actor Kunal Khemu. TV9 Bangla reported that Sohel disclosed how he initially wanted to name his son 'Ram Khan' but later changed it due to concerns involving his ex-wife, Seema Sajdeh.

During the show, Sohel and Seema, who reunited on stage after their 2022 legal separation, shared heartfelt moments. Seema has been seen advising Sohel on game strategies since joining the show. In an episode featuring wild card entrant Ali Goni, Ali praised the politeness and humility of their two sons, Nirvaan and Yohan Khan, and remarked that Nirvaan resembles Sohel closely.

Moved by Ali's comments, Sohel recounted the untold story behind Nirvaan's name. He explained that when Seema was first pregnant, they jokingly agreed that if they had a boy, Sohel would name him, and if a girl, Seema would choose the name. Sohel had hoped to name their son 'Ram Khan,' reflecting their family’s secular values.

However, after Nirvaan's birth, the situation shifted. Sohel recounted, "When Seema regained consciousness post-delivery, she had secretly thought of a name herself. When the doctor confirmed it was a boy, I entered her room. She looked at me softly and asked, 'How is our Nirvaan?' She pronounced the name so beautifully that I couldn't think of changing it. I feared she might feel hurt if I did."

Sohel further shared that Nirvaan's personality aligns with the meaning of his name—calm and composed. Despite their 1998 elopement and 24 years of marriage producing two sons, the couple legally divorced in 2022 but continue to nurture mutual respect and friendship while co-parenting.

Regarding Seema's participation in Alliance, Sohel said that although their relationship dynamic has evolved over time, his respect for her remains unwavering. He added that Nirvaan and Yohan currently live with him, but Seema visits their home at least three times a week to spend time with the boys.

Why this matters

This revelation highlights the complexities of personal relationships within prominent Bollywood families and underscores the importance of mutual respect post-divorce. It also sheds light on how cultural and emotional factors influence decisions like naming children, reflecting broader societal values.

Sohel Khan’s openness about family matters on a public platform contributes to destigmatizing conversations around separation and co-parenting in India’s entertainment industry.