How divorce went from a big taboo to normality for Bollywood stars
By Asjad NazirApr 05, 2024
FOR many decades, divorce was such a taboo in Bollywood that many couples remained unhappily married – but that has all changed in spectacular fashion in the past 15 years.
Asha Bhosle and RD Burman
With actress Esha Deol recently separating from her husband of 11 years, Bharat Takhtani, Eastern Eye decided to dive into the fascinating history of Bollywood divorces and separations.
At one stage, divorce wasn’t legally an option, only permissible under very limited circumstances. In the 1930s, married actress Devika Rani had eloped with costar Najm-Ul-Hassan, but had to reluctantly return to her producer husband, Himansu Rai, because it was impossible for women in India to divorce their husbands, even in abusive relationships. She was only able to officially exit the marriage after Rai passed away in 1940.
In subsequent decades, there were many cases of deeply unhappy stars trapped in loveless or abusive marriages because divorce was not socially acceptable or legally viable.
In the 1950s, Bollywood icons Raj Kapoor and Nargis were deeply in love, but their relationship ended because he was unwilling to divorce his wife.
A similar story unfolded with legendary stars Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman, and it was the same with Ashok Kumar and Nalini Jaywant. In both cases, the married actors were not willing or able to divorce their respective spouses.
In 1952, a teenage Meena Kumari tied the knot with the much older filmmaker Kamal Amrohi.
By the 1960s, she walked out of her deeply abusive marriage, which included widely reported physical abuse. Despite having a series of high-profile relationships with co-stars, including Dharmendra, she never formally divorced. Even though some claimed the couple had undergone an Islamic ‘triple talaq’ separation, she remained legally married to him until her premature death in 1972.
Esha Deol and Bharat Takhtani
When iconic Bollywood beauty Zeenat Aman married failed actor Mazhar Khan in 1985, she also found herself in an abusive marriage, but stayed with him until his death in 1998. She famously said, “During the very first year of marriage, I realised I had made a huge mistake, but decided to live by it and make it work. I tried to make it work for another 12 years. There was no light at the end of the tunnel for me. There was not a single moment of happiness or joy during those 12 years. But I still tried making it work.”
Other leading ladies who bravely walked out of their respective marriages did not get officially divorced.
Popular actress Babita left her husband Randhir Kapoor, with her daughters Karisma and Kareena Kapoor, but the celebrity couple remained legally married. Randhir said, “Divorce for what? Why should we head for divorce? I don’t intend to get married again, and nor does she.” The couple would reunite years later, after living separately.
There were many cases of leading men reportedly cheating on their spouses and getting caught, but not divorcing, with Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan being the most famous.
Kamal Amrohi and Meena Kumari
But all that has changed in recent years, with perhaps more celebrity divorces in Hindi cinema than ever before.
Actors and actresses who have divorced during that time include Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Arbaaz Khan, Sohail Khan, Arjun Rampal, Dia Mirza, Imran Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Mahima Chaudhry, Konkona Sen Sharma, Isha Koppikar and Manisha Koirala.
Karisma Kapoor, who had previously had a broken engagement with Abhishek Bachchan, divorced her husband Sunjay Kapur in 2016 after 13 years.
Director Anurag Kashyap divorced actress Kalki Koechlin in 2015.
Meanwhile, Aamir Khan divorced his second wife, filmmaker Kiran Rao, in 2021, after 15 years of marriage.
In 2023, Rani Mukerji tried to explain the rise in divorces in Indian society and suggested that her 2006 film, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, which revolved around an extramarital affair leading to separations, may have played a part.
“I think what happened with Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna was that, after the film (was released), there were a lot of divorces. There were a lot of people going to the theatre and watching the film in extreme discomfort. And I think that is the feedback Karan got for his film, and I think it opened the eyes of a lot of people and they took the decision of being happy,” she said.
Hrithik Roshan and Sussanne Khan
Meanwhile, actresses like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shilpa Shetty, Raveena Tandon, Bipasha Basu and Rani Mukerji married divorced men, which previously would have been unheard of.
The latest star to divorce is Esha Deol. The actress married businessman Bharat Takhtani in 2012 and put a pause on her career to devote herself to family life.
But now, after having two children together, the two of them have separated.
Ironically, when Esha’s legendary actress mother Hema Malini married her superstar father Dharmendra, he didn’t officially divorce his first wife.
Their marriage in 1980 still remains mired in mystery and controversy because getting married twice without a divorce is illegal in India.
Legend has it that Dharmendra had converted to Islam for the marriage to be legalised because Muslim men are permitted to marry more than once, but both have denied the accusation.
Esha’s elder half-brother Sunny Deol has reportedly been estranged from his wife for decades, but never officially divorced. Sunny has famously been in a relationship with Dimple Kapadia for decades, and she remained legally married to Rajesh Khanna until his death in 2012, some 30 years after they had separated.
Randhir and Babita Kapoor
Asha Bhosle recently questioned why there were so many divorces and revealed that after her first marriage broke down, she didn’t file for divorce.
She said, “I am a 90-year-old woman. I got married, had three kids. I’d take the kids to my mother’s house when things became difficult in my marriage, but I never filed for divorce. But nowadays, every month I hear about divorces. Why is this happening?”
The legendary singer remained married to the much older Ganpatrao Bhosle until he died despite the separation and then later married for a second time to music director RD Burman.
He had married a fan (Rita Patel) in 1966 and took the rare step of divorcing her five years later before eventually marrying Bhosle in 1980.
The rise in divorces has shown that Hindi cinema stars now have the freedom not afforded to previous generations and are perhaps inspiring others to leave unhappy marriages, which means more separations are likely on the way.
Actress Neena Gupta tried to sum it up when she said, “Today, young girls are financially independent and thus won’t take anything from a man. This is why divorces are happening. Earlier they had no option but to silently suffer.”
Raj Kundra questioned in India for five hours over alleged £5.6m (₹60 crore) fraud
He claimed money was paid as fees to Bollywood stars Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia
Investigators traced nearly £2.3m (₹25 crore) in direct transfers to actresses and Balaji Entertainment
Shilpa Shetty also under scrutiny as financial probe widens
Businessman Raj Kundra, husband of Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty, has been questioned for nearly five hours by financial crime investigators in India in connection with an alleged £5.6 million (₹60 crore) fraud. During interrogation, Kundra reportedly said part of the disputed money was paid as professional fees to Bollywood actresses Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia. Authorities are now examining whether these transactions were legitimate or part of a larger scheme.
Raj Kundra names Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia in £5.6m Bollywood fraud probe Getty Images
Why has Raj Kundra been questioned?
The case began after Indian businessman Deepak Kothari, director of Lotus Capital Financial Services Ltd, filed a complaint alleging he had been cheated out of £5.6m (₹60 crore) between 2015 and 2023. Following this, police in Mumbai registered a case against Kundra, Shetty, and another associate in August this year.
Kundra appeared before investigators this week and was extensively questioned. Officials described him as evasive on several points, leading them to plan further rounds of questioning. He was also asked to provide video material from a project called Best Deal, which he claimed had already been submitted to another police department.
Raj Kundra grilled over £5.6m fraud, links Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia to paymentsGetty Images
What did Kundra say about the money trail?
According to officials, Kundra admitted that some of the disputed funds were paid as fees to Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia. He also confirmed transactions linked to Shilpa Shetty and the production company Balaji Entertainment.
Investigators have tracked nearly £2.3m (₹25 crore) in direct transfers to these accounts. They are now assessing whether these were legitimate professional payments or part of a fraudulent operation. Officials also noted suspicious fund movements during India’s 2016 demonetisation, when the country’s financial system was under severe strain.
Bollywood fraud case: Raj Kundra under scrutiny as Bipasha Basu and Neha Dhupia payments emergeGetty Images
What role do the actresses play in the probe?
Financial records show that accounts connected to Shilpa Shetty, Bipasha Basu, and Neha Dhupia received transfers from the company under investigation. Kundra insists these were legitimate payments for work, but investigators said his answers were incomplete.
Neither Bipasha Basu nor Neha Dhupia have commented publicly on the case. Authorities have not alleged wrongdoing on their part, but their names remain part of the money trail being examined.
Raj Kundra tells police £5.6m fraud funds went to Bipasha Basu and Neha DhupiaGetty Images
What happens next in the investigation?
Indian financial crime authorities have said the investigation is ongoing and that more individuals may be summoned in the coming days. They are also expected to re-examine video material linked to Kundra’s company to determine whether it was used as a front to move money.
In an official statement, Mumbai Police said: “Investigations are going on against actress Shilpa Shetty and her husband Raj Kundra in an alleged fraud case of £5.6m (₹60 crore). A summon was issued to Raj Kundra, and he appeared before police for questioning.”
With financial records under fresh scrutiny, the case has become one of the most high-profile fraud investigations involving Bollywood figures in recent years.
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Robert Redford dies at 89 leaving behind a Hollywood and Sundance legacy
Robert Redford, Oscar-winning actor and director, dies at age 89 in Utah
Starred in classics including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men
Founded the Sundance Institute, transforming the landscape of independent cinema
Advocated for environmental causes and used his fame to highlight pressing global issues
Robert Redford dies at 89, leaving behind a legacy that bridged blockbuster Hollywood hits and groundbreaking independent cinema. Best known for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men, Redford was not only a matinée idol but also an Academy Award-winning director and the driving force behind the Sundance Film Festival, which changed the trajectory of global filmmaking.
Robert Redford dies at 89 leaving behind a Hollywood and Sundance legacy Getty Images
What happened to Robert Redford?
Redford’s publicist Cindi Berger confirmed that the actor-director died on 16 September 2025 at his home in Sundance, Utah. “Robert Redford died in the mountains of Utah, the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved,” she said in a statement. His family has requested privacy.
The actor had gradually stepped away from Hollywood in recent years, with his final acting role in 2019’s Avengers: Endgame, where he reprised his Marvel character Alexander Pierce. His last leading part came a year earlier in The Old Man & the Gun, a performance many considered a fitting farewell to his on-screen career.
Robert Redford became a household name in the late 1960s after starring alongside Paul Newman in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969). The film not only established him as a charismatic leading man but also inspired the name of his later Sundance Film Festival.
In the 1970s, he was Hollywood’s top box office draw, starring in films such as The Sting, The Way We Were, Three Days of the Condor and All the President’s Men. The latter, based on the Watergate investigation, cemented his reputation for balancing star power with politically charged storytelling.
His career took a new turn in 1980 when he directed Ordinary People, a family drama that earned him an Academy Award for Best Director.
Robert Redford dies at 89 remembered for Butch Cassidy and SundanceGetty Images
What is Robert Redford’s legacy with Sundance?
In 1981, Redford established the Sundance Institute in Utah, aiming to nurture new voices in cinema. What began as a modest filmmaker’s lab grew into the internationally renowned Sundance Film Festival, the premier platform for independent cinema in the United States.
Through Sundance, Redford helped launch the careers of directors such as Quentin Tarantino, Steven Soderbergh and Ava DuVernay. The festival became synonymous with bold, offbeat storytelling and gave independent filmmakers access to mainstream audiences.
Robert Redford dies at 89 as Sundance pioneer and Oscar winnerGetty Images
How did Robert Redford impact politics and the environment?
Beyond cinema, Redford was a committed activist. He was vocal on environmental issues from the 1970s onwards, helping to halt the construction of a Utah power plant and speaking at global climate forums. In 2015, he addressed the United Nations, urging urgent action on climate change.
His political work extended to his films, with projects like The Candidate and Lions for Lambs reflecting his engagement with social and civic debates. Former US President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016, praising both his artistry and activism.
U.S. President Barack Obama presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Robert Redford Getty Images
How is Hollywood remembering Robert Redford?
Tributes have poured in from across the film industry. Meryl Streep described him as “one of the lions of cinema,” while Ron Howard hailed him as “an artistic game-changer.” Jamie Lee Curtis called him a symbol of “family, art, transformation, advocacy, creation and legacy.”
Robert Redford dies at 89 as Hollywood pays tribute to a cinema giantGetty Images
Redford is survived by his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, his daughters Shauna and Amy, and seven grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era, but his work, from Hollywood classics to independent cinema breakthroughs, continues to inspire audiences and filmmakers worldwide.
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‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’ trailer sparks festive wedding chaos with Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor
The Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer is out, offering a festive family entertainer.
Features a star-studded cast including Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Sanya Malhotra.
Set against a vibrant Indian wedding backdrop with romance, comedy, and music.
Directed by Shashank Khaitan and produced by Dharma Productions and Mentor Disciple Entertainment.
The Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer has finally landed, giving audiences a glimpse of what promises to be one of 2025’s most joyous family films. Bursting with romance, humour, and festive charm, the trailer sets the tone for a big fat Indian wedding story, rooted in togetherness and celebration, a hallmark of Dharma Productions’ signature family entertainers.
‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’ trailer sparks festive wedding chaos with Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor Instagram/dharmamovies
What can viewers expect from the Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer?
The trailer showcases a colourful wedding filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and musical celebrations. Fans get to see an ensemble cast including Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Sanya Malhotra, Rohit Saraf, Akshay Oberoi, and Maniesh Paul, each adding their own flavour to the story. From playful banter to emotional family sequences, the trailer hints at a film designed to appeal to all generations.
Directed by Shashank Khaitan, known for his successful family-centric films, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari reunites him with Dharma Productions. Producers Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Shashank Khaitan have worked together to ensure the film combines humour, music, and emotion seamlessly. Karan Johar described it as “a film that celebrates togetherness, love, and laughter in the most festive way possible.”
Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari hits theatres on 2nd October 2025, just in time for Dussehra. The timing adds to the film’s appeal as a seasonal treat for families looking to enjoy a mix of romance, comedy, and celebration on the big screen. Early reactions to the trailer already suggest it could be a major festive box-office draw.
Why the Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari trailer is special
Beyond the vibrant wedding visuals and ensemble cast, the trailer stands out for its humour and nostalgia. Director Shashank Khaitan has focused on crafting moments that will make viewers smile and perhaps even reminisce about their own family celebrations. With music, laughter, and heartwarming interactions, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari promises to be a cinematic experience that celebrates the joy of coming together.
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Dulquer Salmaan reveals Mammootty and Priyadarshan doubted Lokah Chapter 1
Dulquer Salmaan says both his father Mammootty and Kalyani’s father Priyadarshan were initially worried about the ambitious project.
The Malayalam superhero film has stormed the global box office, crossing £24 million (₹250 crore).
Kalyani Priyadarshan shares the key advice her director father gave her following the monumental success.
The producer-actor admits his production company was braced for a significant financial loss.
The record-shattering success of Lokah Chapter 1 has sent shockwaves through Indian cinema, but for producer Dulquer Salmaan and star Kalyani Priyadarshan, the sweetest victory was winning over their most sceptical critics: their legendary fathers.
In a recent interview, Dulquer disclosed that veterans Mammootty and Priyadarshan had serious doubts about the risky superhero venture, making its phenomenal Lokah Chapter 1 box office haul a deeply personal win. The film’s performance has not only re-written Malayalam cinema’s commercial potential but also cemented its pan-India appeal.
How much has Lokah Chapter 1 made at the box office?
The numbers speak for themselves. Since its release on 28 August, the Dominic Arun-directed epic has performed like a behemoth. The film achieved a staggering £9.6 million (₹100 crore) in its first week alone, a rare feat for a Malayalam film. While a handful of the very biggest Malayalam blockbusters have gone on to collect higher lifetime totals (like the film 2018), crossing the £9.6 million mark within the first week is a clear indicator of an explosive, pan-India opening that only a tiny number of films from the industry have achieved.
The film’s success is particularly significant for opening to packed houses in key international markets like the UAE, the US, and the UK, proving its acceptance beyond its home state.
What was the reaction of Mammootty and Priyadarshan?
Dulquer Salmaan shared that the two industry stalwarts were apprehensive from the start. “Her dad didn’t expect it,” Dulquer said of Priyadarshan. “He was like, ‘What were you thinking? Why would you take this bet?’”
The producer admitted he had no concrete answer, relying purely on instinct. “I told him honestly, I didn’t know. I just believed in the idea. It felt right. My dad was worried too. They all thought we were a little mad,” he confessed. That worry has since transformed into immense pride. Dulquer mentioned that the film’s success has earned his production house "some leeway to make the kind of movies we believe in."
What advice did Priyadarshan give Kalyani after Lokah Chapter 1’s success?
For Kalyani Priyadarshan, her father’s response was a mix of paternal pride and grounded wisdom. She revealed that his first message after the film “blew up” was a classic piece of advice he often repeats: “Don’t let success get to your head and don’t let failure get to your heart.”
She added, “This time he sent it as a reminder, and he keeps reminding me every day. That’s what I hold on to.” Dulquer affectionately added that Priyadarshan is “adorable” and is constantly concerned about his daughter performing her own stunts, always worrying she might get hurt.
How did Lokah Chapter 1 achieve its pan-India appeal?
Lokah Chapter 1’s success is rooted in its high-concept originality and execution. By presenting cinema’s first full-fledged female superhero in a mythology-inspired story, it offered a fresh narrative that captivated audiences tired of formulaic content. The film’s high-quality visual effects, which rival major Hollywood and Bollywood productions, became a major talking point.
Furthermore, its use of Kerala’s rich folklore with a modern twist in an urban setting and a compelling performance by Kalyani Priyadarshan created an end result that transcended language barriers. Its organic buzz on social media, fuelled by positive word-of-mouth, turned it into a must-watch cinematic experience across the country.
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Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12 2025
Taylor Swift reportedly used a £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh) bulletproof portable shield to attend Travis Kelce’s game discreetly.
Heightened security follows the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk last week.
Swift’s low-profile entry marked a departure from her usual public arrivals at Arrowhead Stadium.
Fans speculate the singer opted for extra protection amid growing safety concerns.
Taylor Swift took unprecedented precautions at Sunday’s Kansas City Chiefs game, reportedly shielding herself behind a bulletproof barrier as she watched fiancé Travis Kelce play. The heightened security comes amid concerns following Charlie Kirk’s shocking murder, showing that Swift’s safety remains a top priority. Fans noticed the unusual arrival, sparking discussions online about the superstar’s protective measures.
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift at Amerant Bank Arena on June 12 2025 Getty Images
What kind of barrier did Taylor Swift use at the Chiefs game?
According to reports, Swift was behind a bullet-resistant portable shield partition valued at around £6,000 (₹7.14 lakh). The barrier, escorted by multiple security personnel, appeared to move through the stadium tunnels, preventing cameras and fans from spotting her. While there is no official confirmation, Swifties are convinced the singer took the extra step to maintain privacy and safety during the match.
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Why did security concerns escalate for Taylor Swift?
The need for extra protection follows the fatal shooting of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University last Wednesday. Although unrelated to Swift, the event heightened conversations about celebrity safety.
Fans drew connections between the murder and Swift’s low-profile entry, since she rarely avoids public attention when attending Travis Kelce’s games. Past incidents, including threats and security challenges, have also prompted Swift to adopt protective measures, such as carrying QuikClot dressings and employing armoured vehicles, as revealed in her 2020 documentary Miss Americana.
Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift and Jason Kelce watch during the first half of the game on August 28, 2025 in Kansas CityGetty Images
How did fans react to Taylor Swift’s discreet arrival?
Online reactions ranged from concern to intrigue. Many fans praised Swift for prioritising safety, while others speculated about the implications of such high-security measures at public events. Social media posts highlighted the contrast between her usual high-profile entrances and the stealthy approach during Sunday’s match. While the Kansas City Chiefs lost 20-17 against the Philadelphia Eagles, attention remained focused on Swift’s security while attending the game.
How has Travis Kelce influenced Taylor Swift’s sports fandom?
Beyond safety, the couple’s shared experiences have brought Swift closer to the NFL. Kelce recently told GQ that he introduced Swift to football, helping her understand injury reports, game situations, and team strategies. “I sort of made her a football fan,” Kelce said. Swift’s engagement with the sport has grown alongside her public appearances, though Sunday marked one of her most discreet visits. Fans hope her presence continues to bring excitement and maybe luck to the Chiefs as the season progresses.