Malaika Arora Opens Up on Arbaaz Khan Divorce: 'People Judged Me, Called Me Selfish for Prioritizing My Happiness'

Bollywood's style icon, Malaika Arora, has candidly spoken about her divorce from actor-producer Arbaaz Khan, shedding light on the immense personal and societal challenges she faced during their separation. 

In a recent interview, Malaika revealed that while ending her 18-year marriage was one of the toughest decisions of her life, she chose to prioritize her own happiness, a choice for which she faced considerable judgment.



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Malaika and Arbaaz tied the knot in 1998 and welcomed their son, Arhaan Khan, in 2002. The couple announced their separation in 2016, with their divorce finalized in 2017. Their split sent shockwaves through the industry, as they were often seen as one of Bollywood's most stable couples.

"Of course I would have loved for my marriage to be forever. But that didn't happen," Malaika confessed in her interview. She emphasized that despite the marital breakdown, she has not lost faith in love, nor does she view her decision as a "huge mistake."

A significant aspect of her narrative was the public scrutiny and judgment she endured. Malaika stated, "What people forget is people think it's wrong to put yourself first. But what is the harm? I needed to be happy before making anybody else happy. I was not happy." She recounted how "too many people pointed fingers at me and said, 'What a selfish decision.'" However, for Malaika, this "selfish decision" was a necessary step towards her well-being. "But that might be a selfish decision to you. I did what I felt. It is hard for people to understand. I feel that decision has helped me become a better person," she explained, adding that she is now "more at ease" with herself and in a "happier space," which has also positively impacted her son.

Malaika also touched upon the complexities of co-parenting their son, Arhaan, who is now 22 years old. "It has its challenges. It's not the easiest thing on planet Earth. But after all these years, we have found a good balance," she shared. She noted that they have established clear boundaries, allowing Arhaan to address different matters with either parent, which has worked well for their family dynamic.

Looking back, Malaika shared a piece of advice she would give her younger self: "Take your time to get married." She reflected that she married at a very young age and would now advise women to focus on themselves, their careers, and understanding life's journey before taking such a significant plunge.

Despite the past, Malaika maintains a hopeful outlook on love. Calling herself a "hardcore romantic," she affirmed, "I believe in love. I believe in all things about love. So, never say never," hinting at the possibility of marriage in the future.

Malaika Arora's candid revelations offer a rare glimpse into the personal struggles behind a high-profile divorce, resonating with many who have faced similar judgments for prioritizing their happiness and mental well-being.

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Watch: Malaika Arora On Love, Heartbreak, Co Parenting, Family Struggles, Tough Times & Trolling


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