Malaika Arora Slams Society's Double Standards On Divorce; Says 'Women Are Judged For Being Strong'

Malaika Arora has spoken again about life after divorce, this time focusing on double standards. In a recent chat, Malaika discussed how opinions about her changed after ending her marriage to Arbaaz Khan, why her relationship with Arjun Kapoor gets constant attention, and how society reacts differently when men and women move on.

In the interview with Barkha Dutt for Mojo Story, Malaika described how criticism still follows many of her choices. She said, "You are constantly judged for being strong. We are going to have these judgements irrespective. I have utmost regard and love for men because some of the men in my life have been instrumental and really amazing."

Malaika Arora divorce and trolling highlight double standards

Malaika then highlighted how people often praise men for behaviour that brings questions for women. She said, "Today, if a man decides to move on — get a divorce, marry someone half his age — it's like, 'Wow, what a man!' But when a woman does it, she is questioned: 'Why would she do something like that? Doesn't she have sense?' There are constant stereotypes."

These comments link directly to the public reaction after Malaika and Arbaaz chose to separate in 2017, following nearly 19 years together. The pair avoided sharing many details, preferring quiet handling of the breakup. Yet the decision changed how many people discussed Malaika, with her personal life becoming frequent material for social media judgement.

Malaika Arora divorce, early marriage and family advice

Reflecting on her marriage, Malaika also spoke about a conversation with her mother when she wed at 25. She said, "My mom would always say, 'Go out there, enjoy your life, and please don't marry the first guy you date'—which I did. I married the first guy I ever dated. She couldn't understand why I would do that. She said, 'If you do that, how will you ever know what's out there?' And I was like, 'Mom, chill now.' But she has always been someone who encouraged us to live and dream. She never stopped us from doing anything."

While Malaika faced questions for dating Arjun Kapoor and the age difference between them, attention towards Arbaaz’s relationships followed a different tone. Arbaaz first dated Giorgia Andriani after the divorce and later married makeup artist Sshura Khan. Malaika has indicated that this difference in public response continues to trouble her, as people still dissect her decisions more harshly.

Malaika Arora divorce, career beginnings and public image

Before her personal life drew such intense focus, Malaika had already built a visible media career. In her early 20s, Malaika worked as an MTV VJ and soon became one of the channel’s best-known faces. Modelling work and music videos followed, and the 1998 song Chaiyya Chaiyya made Malaika widely recognised that same year.

Malaika entered the Khan family in 1998 when she married Arbaaz, while also continuing screen work. Over the years, Malaika appeared in films in guest roles, including the Dabangg series, while trying to balance household responsibilities with professional commitments. After the divorce, however, discussions often shifted from Malaika’s career to her clothes, relationships and choices, something she still challenges in many interviews.

Malaika’s latest remarks underline how, even years after the 2017 separation, the reactions to her life remain different from those directed at Arbaaz. By speaking openly about double standards, family advice and her journey from MTV VJ to film appearances, Malaika continues to question why strength and independence in women still attract so much scrutiny.