Published on April 3, 2026
The Bombay High Court has dismissed a plea filed Advani seeking legal recognition of her relationship with the late Bollywood superstar Rajesh Khanna as a ‘marriage.’ The court ruled that the petition lacked merit and reiterated that the relationship, though significant, did not fulfill the legal requirements of marital status under Indian law.
Anita Advani, who was in a long-term relationship with Khanna until his death in 2012, had contended that the couple shared a committed partnership akin to marriage, which should be recognized . However, the court pointed out that there is a clear legal distinction between live-in relationships and formal marriage, and the absence of a registered marriage certificate in this case was a crucial factor in its decision.
During the hearings, Advani’s counsel argued that the late actor publicly referred to her as his wife and made significant commitments to her, emphasizing the emotional and social dimensions of their relationship. Despite these arguments, the judges maintained that legal recognition requires adherence to specific statutory provisions that govern marriage in India.
Legal experts have noted the implications of this ruling for similar cases, where partners in long-term relationships seek formal recognition of their bonds after the death of one of the parties. The judgment has sparked discussions on the need for reforms in Indian marriage laws, particularly concerning live-in relationships and the rights of partners in such arrangements.
Advani expressed disappointment with the court’s decision but has not indicated whether she will pursue further legal avenues. The case has brought to light the complexities surrounding personal relationships and the law, highlighting a growing awareness of needs for broader recognition of diverse forms of partnership in contemporary society.
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