Jay Bhanushali backs Ankita Lokhande’s defence of Mahhi Vij amid trolling over Nadim post

jay bhanushali

• Mahhi Vij faced online trolling over a birthday post for friend Nadeem Nadz
• Ankita Lokhande clarified Nadeem is a father figure to Mahhi, not romantic.
• Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij co-parent despite their announced divorce.

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Television actors Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij have been in the spotlight since announcing their divorce earlier this month after nearly 15 years of marriage. Amid the personal transition, social media discourse surrounding their lives has intensified — particularly over a recent post by Mahhi that sparked online backlash.

The controversy erupted after Mahhi Vij shared a heartfelt birthday post for her close friend Nadeem Nadz, a television producer associated with Salman Khan’s circle, describing him as a source of solace and support. Some netizens interpreted the post as carrying romantic undertones, especially given the timing following the couple’s separation. This prompted trolling and speculation about her relationship with Nadeem.

In response, Ankita Lokhande — a fellow television actress and friend — took to Instagram to defend Mahhi against the online speculation. In a detailed note,“Today I want to say something-not as a celebrity, but as a friend. I've been really disturbed by the way people are commenting on Mahi and Nadeem's relationship. I know Mahi, I know Nadeem, and I know Jai very well. And I need to say this clearly-Nadeem has always been a father figure to Mahi and Jay, and a father to Tara. That's it. Nothing else. Some bonds are built on respect, love, and years of trust and outsiders don't get the right to judge them.”

She added, “As a friend, I can say this Nadeem is someone who has stood by people, including me, in difficult times. My respect for him is huge. Mahi and Jai, you're doing an amazing job as parents. God bless you, And to those spreading negativity-please stop. Let people live their lives. Karma is watching. Mahi, I love you. Jai, I love you. And Nadeem-you're truly one of the best. You are a god sent person for many of us!!”

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Jay Bhanushali reposted Ankita’s message on social media, writing, “Thank you Ankita and I agree with every word you have said.” Mahhi too reshared the support, though without additional commentary.

The couple, who share three children — daughters Tara and Khushi and son Ranjveer — issued a joint statement upon announcing their divorce, emphasising mutual respect, co-parenting and a commitment to kindness even as they go their separate ways.