Rukhsar Rehman: From Teen Stardom to Motherhood and Back

Chandra Shekar

Rukhsar Rehman is not just another Bollywood actress. Her name signifies strength, resilience, and a journey that inspires countless women across India. From debuting alongside Rishi Kapoor at the age of 17 to facing a forced marriage and fleeing with her infant daughter at 19, Rukhsar’s life reads like a powerful film script. This article delves deep into her extraordinary story, career highs and lows, personal struggles, and her daughter Aisha Ahmed‘s growing success in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Bollywood Debut

Born on October 29, 1975, in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, Rukhsar Rehman hailed from a well-educated family. Her father, Lateefur Rehman Khan, was an IAS officer, and education and discipline were integral parts of her upbringing.

Rukhsar’s entry into Bollywood was swift and impactful. At just 17, she debuted in the romantic film Yaad Rakhegi Duniya opposite Aditya Pancholi in 1992. She was soon cast alongside Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor in Inteha Pyar Ki the same year, signaling her arrival as a promising young actress.

However, just as her career was gaining momentum, life took an unexpected turn.

Forced Marriage and Sudden Disappearance from Films

At 19, Rukhsar’s parents arranged her marriage to Asad Ahmed, a businessman. Like many young women in traditional Indian households, she was expected to step away from her ambitions and focus on family life.

Soon after marriage, she gave birth to a daughter—Aisha Ahmed. But things took a darker turn. In interviews, Rukhsar revealed that she faced emotional turmoil and realized that she could not continue living in a toxic environment.

The Escape: Fleeing with Infant Daughter

In a rare act of bravery in the mid-90s, when such moves were often taboo, Rukhsar ran away from her marital home with her infant daughter. She returned to Rampur and started a small garment business to support herself and her child.

Her disappearance from films left fans wondering, but few knew the immense courage it took for her to choose dignity and independence over abuse and tradition.

A Decade in Silence and a Fierce Comeback

For almost a decade, Rukhsar stayed away from the limelight. She focused on building a stable life and raising Aisha. But destiny had more in store.

In the early 2000s, with her daughter now growing up, Rukhsar made the bold decision to return to Mumbai and revive her acting career. This second innings would see her transition from romantic leads to strong supporting characters.

Films That Redefined Her Career

Rukhsar’s comeback was slow but steady. She appeared in several critically acclaimed films and played pivotal roles in Bollywood’s biggest hits.

Notable Movies:

Sarkar (2005) – A gritty political drama where she held her ground among industry heavyweights.
PK (2014) – A Rajkumar Hirani classic starring Aamir Khan.
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) – A major hit that introduced her to a new generation of fans.
83 (2021) – A sports biopic where she appeared in a well-received supporting role.
Khuda Haafiz: Chapter 2 (2022) – Proved she still had emotional range and depth.

In each role, Rukhsar brought gravitas, proving that she was more than a comeback artist—she was a survivor with stories to tell.

Rukhsar Rehman’s Television and Web Series Work

Parallel to her film career, Rukhsar embraced television and digital media.

Popular TV & Web Appearances:

Tumhari Paakhi (2013–14)
The Gone Game (2020–2022)
The Night Manager (2023) – a gripping thriller series that showcased her versatility.

Her adaptability in shifting formats—from television to OTT platforms—makes her one of the most versatile senior actresses today.

Marriage to Faruk Kabir and Divorce

In 2010, Rukhsar married filmmaker Faruk Kabir, known for directing films like Allah Ke Banday and Khuda Haafiz. The couple shared a quiet, artistic bond and often supported each other’s work.

However, in 2023, Rukhsar confirmed that they had amicably parted ways. Speaking to the media, she said:

“I’m as single as they come… the singlest.”

Her grace in dealing with personal transitions has always been admired.

Raising Aisha Ahmed: A Daughter’s Journey

Perhaps the most fulfilling part of Rukhsar’s life is her daughter, Aisha Ahmed—a rising star in India’s digital entertainment space.

Born in 1996, Aisha followed her mother’s footsteps into the world of acting. She made her mark with performances in youth-centric web series and films.

Aisha’s Highlights:

“Adulting” (2018–2022) – A coming-of-age series that resonated with Gen Z.
“Minus One” (2019–2023) – A heartwarming romantic drama.
3 Storeys (2018) – A critically acclaimed film where Aisha shined.

Aisha has often spoken about her mother’s courage and the sacrifices she made to give her a stable and loving life.

Rukhsar Rehman Today: Resilient, Independent, and Empowered

In 2025, Rukhsar Rehman stands tall—not just as a seasoned actress but as an icon of empowerment. Her story resonates with women who’ve been silenced, pushed into roles they didn’t choose, and are looking for a way back.

Her quiet strength, graceful presence, and willingness to speak her truth inspire countless fans.

Lesser-Known Facts About Rukhsar Rehman

She once wanted to become a doctor before entering Bollywood.
Her father initially disapproved of her acting career.
She took a formal hiatus from acting to run a garment business.
Despite setbacks, she never depended on the industry or any male figure to bounce back.

Final Thoughts:

Rukhsar Rehman’s life is a testimony to resilience. She wasn’t just a teen actress who faded away—she fought her way back, on her own terms. As she continues to shine on screen and support her daughter’s dreams, her legacy becomes richer.

In a world that often measures success by social media followers or box-office numbers, Rukhsar reminds us that real success is living with courage and self-respect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is Rukhsar Rehman?
A: Rukhsar Rehman is an Indian actress known for films like PK, Uri, and TV shows like The Night Manager. She started her career in the early 1990s and made a powerful comeback after personal challenges.

Q: Is Rukhsar Rehman married?
A: She was married twice—first to Asad Ahmed and later to filmmaker Faruk Kabir. As of 2025, she is single.

Q: Who is Aisha Ahmed?
A: Aisha Ahmed is Rukhsar’s daughter and a popular web series and film actress.

Q: What makes Rukhsar’s story inspiring?
A: Her journey from being forced into marriage to independently raising her daughter and rebuilding her acting career is truly inspirational.