Malaika Arora has opened up about being judged for what she wears and even her relationships. In a recent interview, the Bollywood diva admitted that she has been criticised for being “too bold or too outspoken”.
However, Malaika shared that all of this negativity stopped when she stopped justifying herself.
“It was tough because people love to tell you what you should or shouldn’t be. I was judged for my career, my clothes, my relationships – you name it. But the day I stopped explaining myself was the day I felt free. My biggest takeaway? The only narrative that matters is the one you write for yourself,” Malaika told Hindustan Times.
“I’ve been called too bold, too outspoken, too everything. And honestly? I wear it like a crown now. If I’m “too much” for someone, they’re probably not enough for me,” the star, who was previously married to Arbaaz Khan, added.
“Whether in fashion, fitness, or just the choices I’ve made, I’ve never followed a formula. I’ve always believed that real confidence comes when you stop performing for the world and start living for yourself,” Malaika continued.
The ‘Chhaiya Chhaiya’ fame stated that she fought “labels, opinions, and expectations” all her life. While she has learnt to embrace herself over the years, there are times when she doubts herself.
“Self-doubt is human—it never really disappears. There are days when I question myself, just like anyone else. But over the years, I’ve learned to meet those moments with kindness rather than criticism,” Malaika confessed and then added, “Confidence, for me, isn’t about never doubting—it’s about moving forward with grace despite it.”
Malaika Arora’s Career In The Showbiz World
Malaika Arora began her career as a VJ with MTV India before transitioning into modelling, featuring in numerous advertisements and popular music videos, including Bally Sagoo’s Gur Naalo Ishq Mitha opposite Jas Arora. She rose to prominence with her iconic performance in the song Chaiyya Chaiyya from Mani Ratnam’s 1998 film Dil Se.
Over the years, Arora became synonymous with memorable dance numbers such as Maahi Ve (2002), Kaal Dhamaal (2005), and the chartbuster Munni Badnaam Hui (2010). As an actress, she appeared in films including Kaante (2002) and EMI (2008). Beyond films, she has also been a familiar face on television, serving as a judge on reality shows such as India’s Got Talent, MTV Supermodel of the Year, and India’s Best Dancer.
