Malaika Arora has never been one to shy away from speaking her truth. In a recent candid interview with India Today, the fitness icon opened up about the intense judgment she faced after divorcing Arbaaz Khan in 2017—revealing that criticism came not just from strangers but from her own friends and family. Her story is a powerful reminder that choosing personal happiness still comes at a steep price for women in our society.
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Malaika Arora: Journey at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Malaika Arora Khan |
| Age | 51 years (Born: August 23, 1973) |
| Marriage to Arbaaz Khan | 1998-2017 (19 years) |
| Divorce Finalized | May 2017 |
| Son | Arhaan Khan (23 years old) |
| Career Highlights | Model, actress, dancer, TV personality, fitness entrepreneur |
| Famous For | “Chaiyya Chaiyya,” “Munni Badnaam Hui,” India’s Got Talent judge |
| Recent Relationship | Arjun Kapoor (2018-2024) |
| Current Status | Single, focusing on personal growth |
The Judgment Nobody Talks About
Reflecting on her divorce, Malaika admitted she faced backlash from unexpected quarters. “I faced a lot of judgment and backlash, not just from the public, but even from my friends and family,” she shared. “I was questioned about all my choices at that point.”
The hardest part? Being made to feel guilty for prioritizing her own happiness. “Nobody understands that; they are like, ‘How can you put your happiness first?’ But I was okay being on my own,” she explained. This profound statement captures what countless women experience but rarely articulate—the radical act of choosing yourself in a society that expects you to sacrifice everything for marriage.
Despite the uncertainty of what lay ahead, Malaika knew she needed to make that move. “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,” she revealed. Today, she has zero regrets about that decision.
The Double Standards We Ignore
What makes Malaika’s testimony particularly powerful is her willingness to call out patriarchy directly. She highlighted how society reacts differently when men move on after separation compared to women. According to Bollywood Hungama, she stated that men never face the same scrutiny women endure for similar life choices.
“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,” she explained. “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.”
She added that if a woman moves away from traditional expectations, “she is no longer the ideal woman. Immediately, things are said, and fingers are pointed.”
For more stories on women breaking stereotypes in entertainment, visit TechnoSports Women Empowerment.
Life After Divorce: Moving Forward
Following her split from Arbaaz, Malaika was in a relationship with actor Arjun Kapoor from 2018 to 2024. Their 12-year age difference became fodder for trolls and critics, yet another example of how women’s choices are constantly policed. Meanwhile, Arbaaz Khan married makeup artist Sshura Khan in 2023, and the couple welcomed daughter Sipaara Khan in October 2025.
Despite the public scrutiny, Malaika and Arbaaz have maintained an amicable co-parenting relationship with their son Arhaan, now 23. This dignified approach demonstrates that divorce doesn’t have to be acrimonious—it can be a mature decision by two adults recognizing they’re better apart.
According to the World Health Organization, mental health and personal well-being should be prioritized, especially in relationships that no longer serve us. Malaika’s choice embodies this wisdom.
Setting an Example
Malaika believes that moving past societal noise and leading by example is the only way forward. “If you move away from that and make a life, set an example, then you’re doing something right,” she emphasized.
Her journey from facing judgment to becoming a voice for women choosing themselves is inspiring. Today, Malaika continues to thrive as a fitness entrepreneur, TV personality, and influencer with millions looking up to her resilience and authenticity.
Explore more inspiring celebrity transformation stories at TechnoSports Lifestyle.
The Bigger Picture
Malaika’s story isn’t just about one woman’s divorce—it’s about dismantling the stigma around women prioritizing their happiness. It’s about challenging the patriarchal mindset that questions a woman’s worth the moment she steps outside prescribed boundaries.
Her honesty has struck a chord with thousands of women who’ve faced similar judgment for making brave choices. By speaking out, Malaika isn’t just sharing her story—she’s giving others permission to choose themselves too.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Malaika Arora and Arbaaz Khan divorce?
Malaika Arora and Arbaaz Khan finalized their divorce in May 2017 after nearly 19 years of marriage. They continue to co-parent their son Arhaan Khan amicably despite the separation.
Is Malaika Arora in a relationship now?
As of December 2024, Malaika Arora is single after ending her relationship with actor Arjun Kapoor. She has chosen to focus on her personal growth, career, and well-being.
