As Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan approaches his 52nd birthday on January 10, a touching tribute from his former father-in-law, veteran actor-filmmaker Sanjay Khan, has captured the hearts of fans. Taking to Instagram, Khan penned a lengthy, emotional note reminiscing about his first encounter with Hrithik and the enduring bond they share, highlighting the actor's character and their family's graceful dynamics.
A Bond Forged Over a Bicycle
Sanjay Khan's post begins with a charming anecdote from the past. He revealed that he first met Hrithik when the latter was still a teenager, introduced through Khan's son, Zayed Khan. The conversation starter was surprisingly simple: Sanjay needed advice on buying a new bicycle for his morning rides. Zayed pointed him towards Hrithik, who promptly visited one morning.
"His explanations were crystal clear, precise, and delivered with a quiet, sincere confidence that left me impressed," Khan wrote, recalling how Hrithik detailed the latest models and features like three-speed gear systems. Little did he know then that this insightful young man would later marry his daughter, Sussanne Khan.
Witnessing a Star's Rise and a Family's Grace
The note then fast-forwards to a significant period. Around the time Sanjay Khan had just completed the construction of the Hilton Golden Palms in Bengaluru, he invited close friends and family, including Hrithik and Sussanne, to test the resort before its official launch. This stay coincided with Hrithik's meteoric rise to fame following the blockbuster success of Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai in 2000.
Khan observed the actor's professional discipline firsthand during their chats. He described Hrithik as a focused and respectful individual, eager to seek insights about film life. "I’ve long told friends his success stems from unwavering dedication and craft. Today, Hrithik stands as one of Bollywood’s finest," he asserted.
The veteran star also spoke lovingly of his daughter Sussanne and his grandsons, Hrehaan and Hridhaan, whom he called "handsome, wonderful boys." He addressed the couple's separation with notable poise, stating it was "graceful, never bitter." In a heartwarming jest, he shared that he proudly tells friends Sussanne gifted Hrithik "two aces of spades" – a reference to their two sons.
A Public Affection That Speaks Volumes
This public display of affection is not one-sided. Recently, Hrithik Roshan also posted a heartfelt tribute to Sanjay Khan, clearly indicating that their bond remains strong and respectful despite the actor's divorce from Sussanne in 2014. The couple, who tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at the Golden Palms Resort in Bangalore on December 20, 2000, parted ways after 14 years of marriage. They have since been co-parenting their sons amicably.
Hrithik's close ties extend beyond Sanjay and Sussanne to other members of the Khan family, including Zayed Khan and Farah Khan Ali, showcasing a modern, mature approach to post-divorce family relationships.
Concluding his birthday wish, Sanjay Khan wrote, "On January 10th, as millions celebrate, I wish Hrithik a birthday brimming with health, peace, joy, and prosperity. Happy Birthday, Hrithik. I love you, son." The post, accompanied by photos of a warm embrace with Hrithik and another with his daughter and grandsons, stands as a testament to a relationship that has transcended conventional family labels.
