Saif and Kareena’s Son Taimur Sparks Controversy; Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri Responds

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan stirred a major controversy when they named their first son Taimur. The name immediately sparked backlash because Timur, historically known as Taimur, was a 14th-century invader who massacred thousands during his conquest of Delhi. The couple faced significant criticism for choosing a name associated with such a violent past, and both Saif and Kareena have admitted that they briefly considered changing their son’s name due to the uproar.

The recent trailer of filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri’s movie “The Bengal Files” led to speculation that he was mocking Saif and Kareena’s choice by making references to Taimur. However, in a recent interview on The Raunac Show, Agnihotri clarified that he was not targeting anyone specifically. He emphasized that no Indian should name their child after a “murderous invader” and recounted his visit to Taimur’s tomb in Samarkand, highlighting the brutal history associated with the conqueror.

Agnihotri detailed Taimur’s ruthless campaigns, including a massacre of one lakh people in a single night and widespread pillaging from Delhi to Kashmir. While Taimur is celebrated as a hero in his own country, Agnihotri asserted that he does not hold the same regard in India and firmly suggested that the name should not be chosen by Indians.

Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan have both reflected on the controversy over the years. Saif revealed in 2016 that he briefly thought about changing the name, but Kareena was against it, encouraging him to stand by his decision. Kareena also shared in a conversation last year how the controversy affected her but appreciated the love their son also received. She believes that Taimur will grow to understand the attention and cultural interest surrounding his name.