Mukesh Khanna on Marriage: “Affairs Can Be Many, But A Wife Is One”
Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, best known for his roles in iconic shows like Mahabharat, Chandrakanta, and Shaktimaan, has opened up about his views on marriage and relationships at the age of 67. Despite never having married, the actor says his belief in the institution of marriage remains strong and deeply rooted in spirituality.
In a candid conversation on a podcast, Khanna addressed the common perception that choosing to remain unmarried reflects a lack of faith in marriage. Rejecting this idea, he stated that his perspective is quite the opposite. “I believe in marriage more than most people,” he shared, describing it as a sacred and karmic bond rather than just a social arrangement.
A spiritual view of marriage
According to Khanna, marriage is not a random union but something predetermined by destiny. He explained that a life partner is “written” in one’s fate and that such connections are often rooted in karmic ties from past lives.
“A wife is your prarabdh (destiny),” he said, adding that marriage represents the union of two souls. While he acknowledges that marriage hasn’t happened for him yet, he hasn’t ruled it out. “If it is meant to happen, it will,” he noted, expressing openness to the possibility if destiny intervenes.
“Affairs can be many, but a wife is one”
Khanna also shared his thoughts on modern relationships, drawing a clear distinction between casual affairs and meaningful commitment. “Affairs can be many, but a wife is one,” he said, emphasising that multiple relationships are not a measure of masculinity.
He strongly disagreed with the notion that men need numerous romantic experiences to define their identity, adding that his views come from a place of respect for women and belief in emotional depth over fleeting connections.
Criticism of modern television portrayals
The actor has also been vocal about his concerns regarding the portrayal of women on television. He previously criticised Ekta Kapoor for her iconic show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, arguing that it presented women in an exaggerated and often negative light.
Khanna expressed that such portrayals can distort the image of Indian families and relationships, prioritising drama over realism. His remarks resurfaced during discussions around the show’s reimagined version in 2025.
A philosophy shaped by belief
While Mukesh Khanna’s views may appear traditional in today’s context, they reflect a deeply personal philosophy shaped by spirituality, destiny, and respect for long-term commitment.
For now, marriage may not have been part of his journey—but as he believes, if it is written in destiny, it can still happen.
