In a candid conversation, Malaika Arora opened up about her divorce from Arbaaz Khan, defending her decision to prioritize her own happiness and addressing the criticism she faced for ending their marriage.
Finding Strength in Self-Love
The actress and model, who officially separated from Khan in 2016, shared her philosophy on relationships and personal growth. Despite describing herself as “hopeless and loyal” in love, Arora emphasized the importance of self-care in relationships.
“I would have loved for my marriage to be forever, but that didn’t happen,” she explained. “But that doesn’t mean I have lost faith in love, or that what I have done is a huge mistake. Things that were meant to happen, happened.”
The Decision to Part Ways
Arora revealed that the couple made numerous attempts to salvage their relationship before ultimately deciding to separate. “There were many situations where one tries to work on things to make sure something good comes out,” she said. “But it came to a point where we decided that this wasn’t going to work.”
The decision wasn’t made lightly, but Arora stood firm in her belief that personal happiness was essential for everyone involved.
Addressing the Criticism
The actress acknowledged facing significant judgment for prioritizing her own well-being, with many labeling her decision as “selfish.” She responded to these critics with conviction: “People think it’s wrong to put yourself first. At that point, I needed to be happy before trying to work anything else out or making anybody else happy; I was not happy.”
She defended her choice, explaining how the decision ultimately benefited not just herself, but her family as well. “That decision today has helped me to be a better person. I have become more at ease with myself, I’m in a happier space. My kid is in a much better and happier space. I don’t think he would have wanted to be in a space where things are not conducive.”
Successful Co-Parenting Journey
Now co-parenting their 22-year-old son Arhaan, both Arora and Khan have managed to maintain a respectful relationship focused on their child’s well-being. However, Arora was honest about the challenges involved.
“It has its challenges for sure. It’s very important to find balance. I cannot sit here and say it’s the easiest thing on planet earth,” she admitted. “Every day through co-parenting, you have to navigate, but after all these years, we have found a good balance.”
Mature Boundaries and Growth
The actress highlighted how their family dynamic has evolved as their son has matured. “Arhaan knows what things he should talk to his mother and what things he can talk to his father,” she shared. “We have clear boundaries now.”
Despite the end of their marriage, Arora emphasized that both she and Khan have maintained respect for their shared history and their families, ensuring that their son remains the priority in their co-parenting relationship.
Through her journey, Arora has demonstrated that sometimes the most loving thing one can do is make difficult decisions that lead to genuine happiness and healthier family dynamics for everyone involved.
