Malaika Arora calls out how men marry women 'half their age' yet face zero judgment

Malaika Arora has opened a fresh conversation on how society treats men and women differently when it comes to divorce and moving on. Speaking at an event in Mumbai, she addressed the judgments that follow women who choose to end a marriage or begin a new chapter in their personal life.

Malaika, who has experienced both marriage and divorce with Arbaaz Khan, said the scrutiny aimed at women remains unusually harsh. She pointed out that men often receive admiration for the same choices that lead to women being questioned or criticised.

During the interaction, she said, “You are constantly judged for being strong. We are going to have these judgments irrespective. Some of the men have been instrumental in my life to shape the woman I am. But in today's day and age, a man doing it, a man living a certain life, is great. 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. It is like, ‘Why would she do something like that? Doesn’t she have sense?’ There are just constant stereotypes that really need to be shut down.”

Her words drew attention because they reflect a pattern many women speak about but few address so openly in public. Malaika’s own life has often been used as an example in conversations about celebrity relationships, gender expectations and social pressure.

Her marriage to Arbaaz Khan lasted close to two decades before they announced their separation and finalised their divorce in 2017. The two continue to co parent their son, Arhaan. Soon after the separation, Malaika began dating Arjun Kapoor. The relationship stayed in constant spotlight, often attracting commentary that she has repeatedly described as unfair.

It was recently confirmed that Malaika and Arjun had decided to part ways after several years together. At the same time, Arbaaz moved forward in his life and married makeup artist Sshura Khan in December 2023. The couple welcomed their daughter, Sipaara Khan, on October 5, 2025.

Malaika’s remarks underline how different reactions still are depending on whether a man or a woman chooses to start over.