Malaika Arora on equation with Arjun Kapoor: `He is very important to me`

Actress Malaika Arora recently addressed the internet buzz around her, including link-up rumours and comments on her doing item numbers. Known for her age-defying looks and fitness, she often becomes the subject of rumour mills. Speaking on The Namrata Zakaria Show, Arora spoke about how scrutiny around her personal life and relationships has affected her approach towards life.

Malaika on equation with Arjun Kapoor

She said, "I think anger and hurt exist at a particular phase or time in your life, and I think everybody does. We are humans, we all go through phases of anger and being upset, disappointed. That`s just human nature. But as you go along, as time goes on, and the most cliched line is – time heals all."

Malaika and Arjun dated for six years and were quite open about their relationship. However, they called it quits in 2024 and continue to remain friendly. Talking about her equation with Arjun Kapoor, Arora said, "It`s not different. But, irrespective, whatever may be, I think he is somebody who is so very important to me and someone who is such an integral part of my life. Whatever may be. I don`t really want to talk too much about my past or what my future may be enough and more has been written about it. Enough and more has been splashed all over, kind of become a bit of a media feeding ground sort of space."

Malaika on latest link-up rumours

Recently, Malaika was also linked up with a man with whom she was spotted at a music concert and at the airport. Addressing the constant link-up rumours around her, she said, "People like talking. If you are spotted with somebody, you go out, and it becomes a huge discussion. I don`t really want to give chatter unnecessarily, too much of fuel. Trust me, every time I have stepped out, even if it`s a longtime friend, a gay friend, a married friend, an old friend, a manager or anybody, I am immediately linked to that person. We laugh and joke about it. My mother calls me and asks, `Who is this now, baby? Who are they talking about?` It has just become laughable."

She also spoke about how her relationships become a topic of discussion on the internet and make headlines. "My relationships have always been spoken about and they`ve always made headlines. At one point, I remember saying that my life is much more than just my personal life. It was becoming too much of a centre of attention. Unfortunately, people forget that because it doesn`t make a headline or copy. I am at that stage of life now, where I don`t need to prove anything, but I need to do things that make me happy, and I want people to see that."

Malaika on doing dance numbers

On the show, Malaika also spoke about doing item numbers in her 50s. From Chaiyya Chaiyya to Poison Baby, Malaika continues to make a mark with her performances. When asked if she has no problem owning up to the item dance image of hers, she said, "Why not? Why do I need to tone it down or be apologetic about it? I mean, you get trolled for things, and many people say different things - but I don`t understand what the big deal is. Dance is an expression, enjoyed in its true glory and its true form. I feel truly blessed that I am able to do all this at 52; I must be doing something right."

She continued, "It is very, very empowering. It makes me feel amazing. As I have said before, I think that if women out there take it as an example or view it as something empowering or something for them that makes them feel good, then it`s a job well done."