Paris: Bollywood star Malaika Arora, who is currently in Paris attending the Olympics, has candidly discussed the confusion her 21-year-old son, Arhaan, experiences regarding her multifaceted career. In an exclusive interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Malaika opened up about how her diverse roles have left her son’s friends perplexed about what exactly she does for a living.
According to Malaika, Arhaan has shared that his friends often ask him about his mother’s profession, and he finds it challenging to provide a clear answer. “The other day, my son told me that his friends are confused about what exactly I do. They’re like… ‘So she’s done films, songs, she has been a VJ, a model, she’s on TV.’ For a child, even they get confused,” she said. This revelation highlights the complexity of Malaika’s career, which spans across several fields including acting, modeling, dance, and television.
Malaika’s career trajectory has indeed been diverse. She first gained prominence as a model and video jockey before making a mark in Bollywood with her memorable dance performances in hit songs. She has also established herself as a television host and a judge on dance reality shows, making her one of the most recognizable figures in the Indian entertainment industry.
Despite her varied career, Malaika emphasized that she doesn’t feel the need to fit into a specific box. “But why do I need to pander to what exactly I do? I do what makes me feel good,” she stated. Her response underscores her approach to her career, which revolves around pursuing passions that bring her joy and fulfillment rather than adhering to a singular professional identity.
As Malaika approaches her 50th birthday, she reflected on the compliments she receives regarding her appearance. “When someone says, ‘You look amazing at 48,’ it feels fantastic. I don’t think people mean it in a derogatory way. It’s a compliment,” she noted. Malaika credits her appearance to her dedication and hard work. She has long been admired for her commitment to fitness and wellness, which she attributes to maintaining her physical and mental health.
Malaika’s presence on social media has also made her a target for online criticism. She acknowledged that while negative comments can sometimes affect her, she has learned to manage the impact. “Sometimes when I find something nasty written about me, I’ll admit, it messes up my day, but I’m getting better at blocking out the noise,” she confessed. Malaika has developed resilience strategies to cope with online negativity, focusing on her mental strength and well-being through yoga, meditation, and a balanced lifestyle.
In addition to her personal growth, Malaika continues to remain active in the entertainment industry. Her social media platforms serve as a space where she shares insights into her life and work, engaging with her followers despite the occasional trolling. Her commitment to reinvention and self-care is evident in her approach to maintaining her health and appearance, ensuring that she remains both physically and mentally strong.
As she navigates her multifaceted career and personal life, Malaika Arora’s ability to balance diverse roles while staying true to herself remains a testament to her resilience and passion. Her openness about her struggles and achievements provides a glimpse into the life of one of Bollywood’s enduring stars, who continues to captivate audiences with her versatile talents and unwavering dedication.