‘He was at the top of the game’: Journalist recalls why Rajesh Khanna didn’t want Dimple Kapadia to work; psychologist breaks down the long-term impact on marital health

Journalist Pooja Samant, who once interviewed Rajesh Khanna in the 1980s, recalled how he viewed marriage

Rajesh Khanna with Dimple Kapadia at marriage reception. (Source: Express archive photo)

4 min readNew DelhiDec 4, 2025 04:48 PM IST First published on: Dec 2, 2025 at 07:30 PM IST

Actors Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia married each other when she was just 16, and he was 32. Dimple, who had just begun her stint in the industry, was grabbing attention after her breakthrough role in the film Bobby.

However, she decided to get married, and her promising career came to an abrupt halt as Rajesh had banned her from working in movies. This became a major point of conflict later, with Dimple eventually returning to the cinema years after their separation in 1984.

Veteran journalist Pooja Samant, who once interviewed Rajesh Khanna in the 1980s, recalled how he viewed marriage and his expectations from Dimple. She told Hindi Rush, “I don’t exactly remember all that happened during that interview, but I do know that at the time of getting married, Rajesh told Dimple that she had to take care of the household and his family. He was at the top of the game, and he was a superstar, and he wanted a wife who would take care of everything. He didn’t think that the household would be the same if his wife worked in films. Now people want both partners to earn to sustain the house, but Rajesh did not need any more money. On the other hand, Dimple knew she was talented, and that’s why she wanted to work, and maybe that’s why they ultimately got separated.”

How can differences in expectations around career and household roles affect the health of a marriage?

Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, tells indianexpress.com, “Differences in expectations around career and household roles can deeply strain a marriage, as both are full-time responsibilities that consume much of daily life. When one partner contributes as per their capacity, but this clashes with the other’s expectations, it can lead to feelings of being undervalued or ‘doing nothing’.”

This mismatch often breeds frustration, remorse, and agitation, while also eroding a sense of belonging. Over time, it may fuel unhealthy comparisons with others and create emotional distance in the relationship. Open communication, flexibility, and mutual respect are key to balancing these roles without resentment.

Dimple eventually returned to the cinema years after their separation in 1984. (Source: Express Archives)

Steps couples can take to have open conversations about balancing personal ambitions and family responsibilities

Khangarot notes that couples can start by acknowledging that both personal ambitions and family responsibilities are valid and demanding. “Using ‘I feel’ statements rather than blame helps reduce defensiveness and opens space for vulnerability. Regular check-ins, rather than waiting until frustration builds up, allow for adjustments as circumstances change.”

Psychologically, she adds that it’s important to recognise that imbalance is not always permanent—there will be seasons where one partner’s career may need more focus, while at other times family responsibilities may take priority.

Asserting independence while still working on the relationship

Khangarot states, “As a psychologist, I’d suggest beginning with self-awareness, acknowledging the internal conflict between valuing the relationship and desiring professional growth. The first step is to assert independence by setting clear, non-negotiable boundaries around career aspirations. Using assertive, non-confrontational communication helps the partner understand without escalating defensiveness. It’s also useful to reframe the conversation: instead of challenging traditional views head-on, explore how your growth can strengthen the family’s financial security, self-esteem, and overall well-being.”