Aditya Pancholi, a seasoned actor, has a long history in cinema. The largest film studio in pre-Partition Lahore, Pancholi Arts, was once run by his family and is renowned for creating a number of masterpieces.
Aditya, who has a long history, made his on-screen debut in 1985 in the television series Shahadat. But what really made him famous was his supporting part in Feroz Khan's 1988 film Dayavaan. This veteran actor has been in the news for all the reasons, but one of her main controversies is his relationship with actress and politician Kangana Ranaut.
Married to veteran actress Zarina Wahab, the couple share two children: Sooraj Pancholi, who followed in his father's footsteps into Bollywood, and Sana Pancholi. Despite being a family man, Aditya’s name has frequently been linked with several actresses.
Kangana, who entered the film industry as a fresh face, soon found herself entangled in a complex and toxic relationship with Aditya, who was significantly older and already married. According to a 2008 interview with Mumbai Mirror, Aditya claimed he had a deep emotional connection with Kangana, stating: “We were as good as husband and wife. I was actually building a house for both of us on Yari Road. We lived together for three years at a friends' place. Kangana didn't have a penny when I met her… I fell in love with her.”
He also disclosed that he gave her Rs 55 lakh in cash when she expressed interest in purchasing a home. Reflecting on the beginning of their relationship, Aditya shared: “I saw her for the first time on the road. It was pouring. Suddenly, she came up and said a warm 'hi' to me… Kangana started calling me up persistently until I agreed to meet her. Initially, she was a sweet small-town girl.”
However, things quickly soured. Aditya described a moment of betrayal during the filming of Shakalaka Boom Boom, revealing: “I read her sent messages to another actor, while she was asleep. Her messages were certainly not innocent... That was the first time I hit her. We fought and made up."
Kangana has since spoken publicly about the alleged abuse she endured, recounting traumatic experiences that began when she was just 17. She claimed Aditya physically assaulted her, leading to severe bleeding, and that he often stalked her.
In a harrowing revelation, Kangana once hoped that Zarina Wahab would intervene and help her escape the situation. However, she was met with disbelief and rejection: “Zarina not only refused to help but also disbelieved the very fact that Aditya and Kangana were romantically involved.”
Kangana’s candid revelations highlighted the darker side of an industry where young women often face exploitation behind the glitz. Her story has contributed significantly to conversations around abuse, power dynamics, and the need for stronger support systems for vulnerable artists.
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