In a recent episode of the podcast WTF is?, hosted by Nikhil Kamath, Elon Musk surprised listeners with personal revelations about his family’s Indian connection.
Partner’s Background
Musk said his partner, Shivon Zilis, is “half-Indian.” He explained that Zilis was adopted as a baby, grew up in Canada, but has Indian heritage through her biological roots.
Son’s Middle Name: A Tribute to Indian Science
He also disclosed that one of their sons carries the middle name “Sekhar.” The name is a tribute to Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, the Indian-American astrophysicist and Nobel laureate.
Musk said the naming reflects their admiration for Chandrasekhar’s contribution to science and also acknowledges Zilis’s Indian roots.
What This Means
This revelation places a personal spotlight on Musk’s ties to India. Given Musk’s global influence through companies like Tesla, SpaceX and Neuralink, such a link though personal resonates strongly with many in India and among those of Indian origin worldwide.
It also shows a personal side of Musk that fans and followers rarely get to see: his respect for heritage, science, and meaningful legacy through names.