Malaika Arora recently opened up about some of the most personal chapters of her life during a candid conversation on the India Today podcast. Speaking with striking honesty, the actress addressed her divorce, societal judgment, relationships, and the unequal lens through which women are often viewed when they step away from traditional expectations.
Reflecting on her divorce, Malaika revealed the intense scrutiny she faced at the time. “I faced a lot of judgment and backlash, not just from the public, but even from my friends and family. I was questioned about all my choices at that point. Nonetheless, I’m so happy that I stuck by my choices. I have no regrets. I didn’t know what was in store for me. I didn’t know what lay ahead. But I knew at that point, I needed to make that move in my life. I felt it was important for me to be happy. Nobody understands that; they are like, ‘How can you put your happiness first?’ But I was okay being on my own,” she said.
For the unversed, Malaika was earlier in a relationship with Arjun Kapoor, which drew significant trolling due to their age difference. Meanwhile, her former husband Arbaaz Khan has since married Sshura Khan, and the couple now have a child together.
Addressing the stark difference in how society reacts to men and women moving on after separation, Malaika pointed out the inherent bias. “Unfortunately, those questions are never asked. Those eyebrows are never raised. At some level, it’s just understood that we live in a patriarchal society, and this is how things are. There is never any judgment when it comes to certain aspects in the case of men. Unfortunately, women have to bear the brunt of it daily. And if there’s a woman who moves away from the typical, she is no longer the ideal woman. Immediately, things are said, and fingers are pointed. But if you move away from that and make a life, set an example, then you’re doing something right,” she stated.
Malaika also spoke about her current outlook on love and marriage. “I do believe in marriage, but that doesn’t mean it’s meant for me. If it happens, great. But I’m not seeking it. I’m very content. I was married. Then I moved beyond that. I’ve been in relationships. But I am not jaded. I still love my life. I love the idea of love. I love being loved and sharing love. I love being in a situation where I can nurture something beautiful. So, I’m totally open to it. But at the same time, I’m not seeking it. If it happens if it comes knocking at my door, then I will,” she shared.
Offering advice to younger women, Malaika concluded with a candid warning: “Please don’t make the mistake of getting married so young. Yes, beautiful things have happened (during marital life), the best being that I had my kid early. But live and experience life a bit. Then take the call to settle down. Be financially and emotionally independent before you actually settle down.”
Her unfiltered reflections struck a chord, positioning Malaika Arora as a voice for choice, independence and self-respect in an industry—and society—still grappling with change.
Also Read: Photos: Malaika Arora and Amrita Arora snapped at their mother’s residence for Christmas celebration
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