Imran Khan's partner Lekha Washington reacts to Love Jihad remarks. Watch video

Actor Imran Khan's partner, Lekha Washington, addressed criticism received after their public appearance at the premiere of Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos. She also discussed the trolling, her multicultural background, and self-identity.

Actor Imran Khan’s partner, Lekha Washington, has responded to the backlash and online trolling that emerged following their appearance at the premiere of Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos. Lekha, who is an actor herself, faced criticism due to the interfaith nature of their relationship.

The 41-year-old recently shared a video on social media and later addressed the issue in an interview. She highlighted how public scrutiny has impacted her and how she chooses to react to such situations.

In an Instagram video posted on Thursday, she said, "Love Jihad – apparently it is being done to me, a part Burmese, Italian , Punjabi , raised in south India, moved to north India with a dad who's Roman Catholic but agnostic persona (is being love-jihaded by) a guy who's father is part Hindu part Scottish and a mom who is Muslim. So I am like, ‘Do Na Love Jihad,’ and I say, ‘No, no. Instead, I make lights’ (sic)."

A post shared by Lekha Washington (@lekhawashington)

Later, while speaking to Money Control, Lekha said, "Videos of me being used to fuel hate and division are the exact opposite of what I stand for. It’s important to deal with this with humour, in my opinion, quite literally, make light of the ridiculousness of it all," she said.

Asked about the scrutiny their interfaith relationship receives, she said, "My own family is open, multi-hyphenate and respectful of all, as is my partner’s family. I get to witness how a multicultural, expansive, kind, creative and inclusive people beautifully support each other. How lucky am I? I am deeply humbled by the awesomeness of the folks around me."