Veteran actress Aruna Irani recently discussed her decades-long marriage to filmmaker Kuku Kohli, who was already married when they tied the knot in 1990. Irani's comments, including her assertion that "wives always blame the other woman," have resurfaced following Kohli's death on August 25, 2026, at age 77.She opened up about the challenges and criticisms she faced for marrying a man who had a prior family.[timesofindia+8]
A Private Union Amidst Controversy
Aruna Irani and Kuku Kohli married in 1990.At the time, Kohli was already married to Rita Kohli and had two daughters, Pooja Kohli and Karishma Kohli.Irani chose to keep her marriage to Kohli private for many years.She explained that she did not feel comfortable discussing their relationship publicly while his first wife was still alive.Their marriage only became widely known after Rita Kohli passed away.[timesofindia+20]
Contrary to some reports, Irani stated she was aware of Kohli's first marriage from the beginning."I don't know where this stupid news came from that I was not aware of his first marriage," Irani admitted.She recounted that his wife and children would sometimes visit the film sets.Marrying Kohli was a difficult decision for her, but she noted that he "fought the world to marry" her.She also mentioned that her priority was not to hurt anyone, which contributed to her silence.[indianexpress+5]
"Wives Always Blame the Other Woman"
Irani has been vocal about the societal blame often placed on the "other woman" in extramarital relationships.In an interview, she stated, "Ye jo wives hoti hain, voh hamesha dusri aurat ko gaali deti hain" (These wives always badmouth the other woman).She argued that accountability should primarily rest with the husband who breaks his marital vows."See, I am not responsible for keeping you happy; your husband is responsible, hold him first. Tell him, 'why did you do this?'" Irani explained.[timesofindia+14]
The actress rejected the label of "homebreaker," asserting she did not enter the relationship with the intention of destroying a family."Maine koi ghar todne ke liye nahi affair kiya," she said, meaning "I didn't have an affair to break up a home."She acknowledged that relationships can develop in complex circumstances.Irani also drew a parallel to actress Hema Malini's marriage to Dharmendra, who was also previously married, suggesting that love, not just a piece of paper, defines a marriage.[timesofindia+10]
The Decision Not to Have Children
Aruna Irani made a conscious choice not to have children with Kuku Kohli.She explained this decision was influenced by the complicated nature of their marriage.Irani expressed concerns about a child potentially asking about their father's absence or the challenges of raising a child in such a situation."I got married to a married man. I am suffering. It's my job. Let the pain be with me only. But if my child asks, 'Where is papa?', what do I say?" she confided.[facebook+13]
She further elaborated that if something happened to a child in the middle of the night, she would not be able to call Kohli.Her decision was also shaped by her own upbringing, as she was born to her father's second wife and did not wish to pass on similar trauma to her own child.This personal experience solidified her resolve to avoid having children.[timesofindia+4]
Kuku Kohli's Legacy and Recent Passing
Kuku Kohli was a notable Indian film director, producer, screenwriter, and editor.He is widely recognized for launching actor Ajay Devgn's career with his 1991 directorial debut, "Phool Aur Kaante."Kohli directed several other successful films, including "Suhaag" and "Haqeeqat," often collaborating with Irani in her acting roles and later as a producer.[en+6]
Kohli passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 77, after suffering a heart attack in Mumbai.His death brought renewed public attention to his personal life and his long-standing marriage to Aruna Irani.His funeral was attended by many celebrities from the film industry.[timesofindia+9]
Irani's candid reflections on her marriage to Kuku Kohli offer a rare glimpse into the complexities of relationships in the public eye. Her statements continue to spark discussion on societal perceptions and individual accountability in personal choices.
