Key Facts
Amin Hajee, known for his role as Bagha in Ashutosh Gowariker's 2001 classic Lagaan, recently attended the film's 25th anniversary celebration in Mumbai. He was accompanied by his wife Charlotte Whitby-Coles and their daughters. The couple first met on the sets of Lagaan when Charlotte came to visit her brother Jamie, who played a British cricketer in the film.
The Love Story
Recalling the meeting, Amin said that the makers needed British extras for the climactic cricket match and asked Jamie to bring his female family members. Charlotte, then 23 and fresh out of anthropology studies, was keen to explore the specimens in Bhuj, Gujarat, where the film was shot. She saw Amin and thought, 'This is odd. I need to do some research on this specimen.' That research has been ongoing for 26 years, as Amin humorously noted, adding that she is 'still paying three times the Lagaan.'
Life After Lagaan
After dating and marrying, Charlotte relocated to India, and the couple now lives in the hills with their daughters Summer and Sky, whom they homeschool. Charlotte played a crucial role in shaping Amin's career after Lagaan, when he refused to settle for lesser roles. Ashutosh Gowariker, seeing his struggle, offered him to co-write Swades (2004). This opened doors for Amin, who later co-wrote horror films and made his directorial debut with Koi Jaane Na (2021).
Charlotte's Adaptation
Charlotte has fully embraced Indian culture. She learned Hindi, understands Marathi, and loves the Indian side of Amin. On her birthday, Amin posted a heartfelt tribute, calling her his 'soulmate' and thanking her for freeing him from turmoil with her kindness and warmth.
Other Lagaan Romances
Amin is not the only one who found love on the sets of Lagaan. Aamir Khan worked with Kiran Rao, who was an assistant director, and they later married. Even Amin's brother-in-law Jamie got married on the set to his girlfriend Catherine, with the entire cast and crew as the baraat.
FAQ
How did Amin Hajee meet his wife?
Amin Hajee met his British wife Charlotte Whitby-Coles on the set of Lagaan in 2001. She came as a family member of her brother Jamie, who played a British cricketer in the film.
Where does Amin Hajee live now?
Amin Hajee lives in the hills of India with his wife Charlotte and their two daughters, Summer and Sky, whom they homeschool.
Did Charlotte learn Hindi?
Yes, Charlotte learned Hindi and understands Marathi. She has been living in India for longer than she lived in Bristol.