Why Sharmila Tagore Kept Her Assets Separate From Husband And Children

Sharmila Tagore, one of the most prominent faces in Indian cinema, tasted success at an early age with her debut in Satyajit Ray’s Bengali film Apur Sansar (The World of Apu). The 1970s marked the pinnacle of her career, especially with her iconic pairing with Rajesh Khanna in hit films like Aradhana, Safar, Chhoti Bahu, Amar Prem and Raja Rani. These movies garnered immense praise and catapulted Sharmila Tagore to stardom. Her contributions to Indian cinema were acknowledged when she was honoured with the prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2014 and awarded an honorary Doctorate of Arts by the Edinburgh Napier University for her outstanding achievements.

Known for her glamorous image, Sharmila Tagore made headlines for her bold portrayal, notably when she appeared in a bikini on the big screen, breaking stereotypes and captivating audiences with her charm. In 1968, she tied the knot with Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, the former captain of the Indian Cricket team.

In a recent interview on the YouTube show Paisa Vaisa with Anupam Gupta, Sharmila Tagore disclosed her approach to managing her finances and assets. The veteran actress revealed that she maintained sole ownership of her properties and finances, keeping them separate from her husband and children. Emphasising her financial independence, she stated, “Everything that I bought, from houses to cars to jewellery, has always been in my name, not shared with my husband.” She also mentioned that her husband, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, managed his assets separately and had made a will.

Discussing the complexities of Islamic inheritance laws, Sharmila Tagore shed light on the limitations faced in making a will. She highlighted the importance of ensuring that her extensive land holdings and assets are properly managed and distributed among her three children, adhering to legal regulations and family considerations.

Reflecting on her financial journey, Sharmila Tagore admitted that she became financially aware later in life and began managing her financial portfolio during the pandemic lockdown. Her insights into financial independence and estate planning serve as a valuable lesson for many, showcasing her pragmatic approach to securing her legacy.