Ghaziabad, July 2025 — In a striking development from the Sahibabad area of Ghaziabad, two women have publicly renounced Islam and converted to Hinduism, citing personal experiences and a desire for dignity and respect. The conversion took place at an Arya Samaj temple, where both women participated in a traditional havan ceremony along with their children.
🔄 New Identities and Motivations
- Khushboo Khan, now known as Kajal Sahu, and
- Sonia Khan, now Shivani Chaudhary,
were guided through the conversion process by Pinky Chaudhary, leader of the Hindu Raksha Dal. Kajal stated that Hinduism treats women with reverence, often likening wives to Goddess Lakshmi. She emphasized that her decision was influenced by concern for her daughter’s future.
💔 Past Struggles and New Beginnings
Both women had previously married Hindu men. Kajal, originally from Delhi, was earlier married to Yusuf Khan, whom she accused of alcoholism and domestic abuse. After enduring 12 years of hardship, she divorced him and married Vipin Sahu, with whom she now lives peacefully. Kajal has also participated in the Kanwar Yatra, a Hindu pilgrimage.
Shivani, formerly Sonia, resides in Ghaziabad’s Loni area. She married a Hindu man eight years ago and says she found emotional and spiritual fulfillment in Hindu traditions. Her decision to convert was rooted in her belief that Hinduism offers greater respect and freedom to women.
🧭 Social and Cultural Implications
The event has sparked conversations around religious freedom, gender roles, and interfaith relationships. While the conversions were voluntary and conducted through formal rituals, they also highlight the complex personal journeys that often accompany such decisions.