‘That’s why they ultimately got separated’: Veteran journalist recalls why Rajesh Khanna didn’t want Dimple Kapadia to work after marriage; psychologist on how such restrictions impact marital health | Feelings News

Veteran journalist Pooja Samant, who as soon as interviewed Rajesh Khanna within the Eighties, recalled how he seen marriage and his expectations from Dimple. She informed Hindi Rush, “I don’t precisely keep in mind all that occurred throughout that interview, however I do know that on the time of getting married, Rajesh told Dimple that she had to take care of the household and his household. He was on the prime of the sport, and he was a famous person, and he needed a spouse who would care for every part. He didn’t suppose that the family could be the identical if his spouse labored in movies. Now individuals need each companions to earn to maintain the home, however Rajesh didn’t want any extra money. However, Dimple knew she was proficient, and that’s why she needed to work, and possibly that’s why they finally acquired separated.”

How can variations in expectations round profession and family roles have an effect on the well being of a wedding?

Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, tells indianexpress.com, “Variations in expectations round profession and family roles can deeply pressure a wedding, as each are full-time duties that devour a lot of day by day life. When one companion contributes as per their capability, however this clashes with the opposite’s expectations, it may possibly result in emotions of being undervalued or ‘doing nothing’.” 

This mismatch usually breeds frustration, regret, and agitation, whereas additionally eroding a way of belonging. Over time, it could gasoline unhealthy comparisons with others and create emotional distance within the relationship. Open communication, flexibility, and mutual respect are key to balancing these roles with out resentment.

Dimple ultimately returned to the cinema years after their separation in 1984. (Supply: Categorical Archives)

Steps {couples} can take to have open conversations about balancing private ambitions and household duties

Khangarot notes that {couples} can begin by acknowledging that each personal ambitions and household duties are legitimate and demanding. “Utilizing ‘I really feel’ statements quite than blame helps cut back defensiveness and opens area for vulnerability. Common check-ins, quite than ready till frustration builds up, enable for changes as circumstances change.”

Psychologically, she provides that it’s vital to recognise that imbalance shouldn’t be at all times everlasting—there can be seasons the place one companion’s profession may have extra focus, whereas at different occasions household duties might take precedence.

Asserting independence whereas nonetheless engaged on the connection

Khangarot states, “As a psychologist, I’d recommend starting with self-awareness, acknowledging the inner battle between valuing the connection and needing skilled progress. Step one is to say independence by setting clear, non-negotiable boundaries round profession aspirations. Utilizing assertive, non-confrontational communication helps the companion perceive with out escalating defensiveness. It’s additionally helpful to reframe the dialog: as an alternative of difficult conventional views head-on, discover how your progress can strengthen the household’s monetary safety, shallowness, and general well-being.”