In a recent interview, Malaika Arora revealed that she was judged, even by those she loved, for her decision to end her marriage with Arbaaz Khan in 2016. Malaika said that, although divorce is being accepted more today than it has in the past, this type of judgment continues to exist. Arora and Khan divorced in 2017. Their relationship ended, although it had been a close relationship for many years prior to the separation.
Malaika Arora opens up on ‘judgement’
Opening up in a conversation with India Today, Malaika Arora shared how every decision she made at that point was placed under the scanner. “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,” she said. Despite the uncertainty and fear of professional fallout, she stood firm, adding that prioritising her own happiness felt necessary, even if it meant standing alone.
Malaika Arora calls out the double standards for women
Arora also spoke about the unequal standards women are held to when making personal life choices. She noted that similar decisions by men rarely invite the same level of scrutiny.Arora noted, “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.”
Malaika Arora believes in marriage, but on her own terms
Malaika Arora also opened up about her perspective on relationships and how she still believes in the institution of marriage, although she does not feel compelled to pursue it to find companionship and love. Arora remarked, “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.”
Malaika Arora’s message to her younger self
Now that Malaika has gone through this journey, the best advice she would give to her younger self is to take time before moving forward in marriage. She married at a young age of 25 but now believes that it is very important for women to experience living alone or independently and to have the opportunity to have fun and enjoy life before settling down. She said, “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.”
Malaika Arora on professional front
She continues to be a prominent face on Indian television, primarily as a judge on various dance and talent reality shows such as ‘India’s Best Dancer’ and ‘India’s Got Talent’.
