Television actor Mahhi Vij has publicly discussed her decision to decline alimony and maintenance following her separation from husband Jay Bhanushali. The revelation came during a recent appearance on the reality show Bigg Boss 20, where the actor shared personal insights into her life as a single parent and her approach to financial independence following the end of her 14-year marriage.
The couple, who wed in November 2011, officially announced their separation on January 4, 2026, through a joint statement shared on social media. At the time, they maintained that the decision to part ways was mutual, emphasising that there was no singular reason for the split and expressing a commitment to maintaining mutual respect while co-parenting their daughter, Tara.
During a candid moment on the show, while speaking with fellow contestants Aasif Khan and Yung, Mahhi addressed the circumstances surrounding her legal proceedings. She noted that during the court hearings, the judge presiding over their case had requested that she reconsider her stance on refusing financial support on at least four separate occasions. Despite the court’s insistence that she accept maintenance, she maintained her refusal.
Explaining her reasoning, Mahhi stated that she did not feel comfortable accepting money that Bhanushali had accumulated through his professional work. “I didn’t take a single penny in alimony or even ask for maintenance. I’m here on my merit, only so that my daughter’s life is secured,” she said. She highlighted that her decision was not based on a lack of support from her former partner, but rather a personal boundary regarding the nature of his earnings.
According to Mahhi, Bhanushali has remained open to providing assistance, noting that he consistently offers to help with their daughter and has always been supportive. She shared that he often encourages her to pursue professional opportunities outside the home, offering to take care of Tara while she is away. However, she expressed that her life is currently focused entirely on her child, and she feels a strong sense of independence regarding her finances.
“It’s not like Jay doesn’t offer to help, but I cannot ask for money from someone. It’s his hard-earned money,” she explained, citing his long working hours and dedication as the reason for her stance. She noted that his efforts—specifically describing instances where he worked for 16 hours—were the primary factor in her decision to forgo any financial claims during their separation.
The discussion regarding her personal life emerged amidst tensions within the Bigg Boss house, where Mahhi had been involved in an argumentative exchange with fellow contestant Arishfa Khan. Following a dispute over a compromised lifeline, Mahhi had made comments regarding Arishfa's upbringing, which she later apologised for. The conflict intensified when Arishfa brought up the incident again, leading to an emotional response from Mahhi.
As Mahhi continues her journey on the show, her remarks have shed light on the couple’s post-separation dynamic. While the two have ended their marital relationship, they have continued to co-parent their daughter, Tara. The actors have remained consistent in their public stance since January, stating their desire to move forward with respect while navigating their separate lives as parents.
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