Cross-border love: 13 times Pakistani celebs allegedly dated Indian stars

Love knows no boundaries, and even the turbulent relationship between India and Pakistan hasn't stopped some of the most famous personalities from both nations from finding a match across the border. Over the years, several Indian celebrities have reportedly fallen in love with Pakistani stars from the world of entertainment, sports, and business. 

These relationships, often reported by Indian media, have captivated fans on both sides, some culminating in marriage while others, unfortunately, ending. Nevertheless, these stories keep all hopes of Veer-Zara-type scenarios alive. 

Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik

Perhaps the most heartbreaking one on this list, former couple Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik were the talk of the town when they decided to marry, defying geographical and political barriers. They first met at a restaurant, and soon after, Shoaib attended one of Sania’s tennis matches.

Despite facing numerous controversies and obstacles, they tied the knot on April 12, 2010. The couple welcomed their son, Izhaan Mirza Malik, on October 30, 2018. Recently, Shoaib announced their divorce in January 2024, revealing his marriage to Pakistani actor Sana Javed.

Salman Khan and Somy Ali

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has had his share of high-profile relationships, but his romance with Pakistani actor Somy Ali was particularly notable. Born in Karachi, Somy moved to India, inspired by her teenage crush on Salman. She starred in several Bollywood films from 1991 to 1998 and dated Salman for eight years before they broke up, allegedly due to his relationship with Aishwarya Rai. Somy has spoken openly about their relationship in various interviews.

Wasim Akram and Sushmita Sen

Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram and Miss Universe Sushmita Sen were once the talk of the town. They met in 2008 on the sets of the reality show Ek Khiladi Ek Haseena. After Wasim’s wife passed away in 2009, he grew closer to Sushmita. There were rumours about them planning to marry, but Sushmita eventually dismissed these as baseless.

Imran Khan and Zeenat Aman, Rekha

In the 1970s, when the Pakistani cricket team toured India, former cricketer and politician Imran Khan fell for Bollywood star Zeenat Aman. Their romance, however, did not last long. Zeenat later married actor Mazhar Khan, and Imran went on to marry thrice. When asked about her relationship with Imran years later, Zeenat brushed it off as a thing of the past.

Imran Khan was also rumoured to have had a romantic relationship with Bollywood diva Rekha. In 1985, reports claimed they were close and planning to marry. However, their relationship never culminated in marriage.

Veena Malik and Ashmit Patel

Pakistani actor Veena Malik made headlines when she starred on Bigg Boss, and a huge part of that was due to Indian actor Ashmit Patel. The duo created a buzz during their stint on the reality show with their chemistry and public displays of affection. However, their relationship fizzled out soon after the show ended.

Imtiaz Ali and Iman Ali

Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali found love with Pakistani model and actor Iman Ali after his divorce. They were often spotted together, including a visit to Delhi’s Nizamuddin Dargah. However, their relationship ended after two years.

Reena Roy and Mohsin Khan

Reena Roy married Pakistani cricketer Mohsin Khan in 1983, moving to Karachi. The couple had a daughter named Sanam Khan. Despite Mohsin’s brief foray into Bollywood, their differing views on settling in England led to their separation in the 1990s.

Amrita Rao and Farhan Saeed

Amrita Rao reportedly dated Pakistani musician Farhan Saeed in 2008. They met during the shoot of a music video and developed a strong bond. However, their relationship ended after some time.

Shoaib Akhtar and Sonali Bendre

Former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar openly admired Bollywood star Sonali Bendre, even expressing a desire to marry her. He once joked about kidnapping her if she refused his proposal. However, Sonali never responded to his advances and later married filmmaker Goldie Bahl.

Noor Bukhari and Vikram

Pakistani actor Noor Bukhari married Dubai-based Indian businessman Vikram in 2004, but the marriage ended on a sour note. Their public spat became infamous after being aired on a morning show.

Amrita Arora and Usman Afzaal

Bollywood actor Amrita Arora had a serious relationship with Pakistani cricketer Usman Afzaal. Despite their open and public relationship, they eventually parted ways due to the challenges of maintaining a long-distance relationship. Amrita later married businessman Shakeel Ladak.

Zaheer Abbas and Rita Luthra

Former Pakistani cricketer Zaheer Abbas married Rita Luthra after meeting in England. Rita converted to Islam and changed her name to Samina Abbas. Their love story remains a testament to the enduring power of cross-border love.

Sonya Jehan and Vivek Narain

Sonya Jehan, granddaughter of legendary singer Noor Jehan, married Indian banker Vivek Narain in 2005. Initially opposed by their families, they eventually received their blessings. The couple now owns several businesses together and has two children.

To conclude, these stories highlight that love can and often does transcend borders, cultures, and politics, proving that it truly knows no boundaries.

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