Bollywood actress left marriage at 19 with baby in arms to survive. Now, that baby helps Rukhsar Rehman heal after second divorce

Not all Bollywood stories revolve around glamour and success; some are marked by courage, sacrifice, and resilience. Rukhsar Rehman’s life exemplifies this truth. The actress, who debuted opposite Rishi Kapoor as a teenager, faced immense personal challenges early on. Forced by family pressure to leave acting and marry young, she walked away from her marriage at 19 with her infant daughter in her arms. Years later, after rebuilding her career and facing another divorce, it was that same daughter who became her pillar of strength.

Rukhsar began her Bollywood career at 17, starring in films such as Yaad Rakhegi Duniya and Inteha Pyar Ki. However, as highlighted on the Humans of Bombay Instagram page, her parents did not view acting as a respectable profession. Despite her promising start, they arranged her marriage, leading her to step away from films to focus on family life and motherhood.

Leaving Marriage to Protect Daughter

At the age of 19, Rukhsar made the tough choice to leave her marital home with her eight-month-old daughter, Aisha Ahmed. In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, she reflected on the challenges of being a young divorced mother and the societal judgments she faced. Returning to her father’s home in Rampur, she supported herself by opening a boutique, all while holding on to her passion for acting.

Rebuilding Career and Reuniting with Daughter

In 2005, Rukhsar relocated to Mumbai to restart her acting career. This meant leaving Aisha temporarily with her parents—a separation she described as the hardest part of her journey. After enduring numerous auditions and setbacks, she landed roles in films like D, Sarkar, PK, and God Tussi Great Ho, as well as TV shows including Kuch Toh Log Kahenge and Tumhari Paakhi. Eventually, Rukhsar reunited with Aisha in Mumbai. Inspired by her mother’s resilience, Aisha has carved out her own space in entertainment, starring in web series such as Adulting and Minus One.

Support Through Second Divorce

Rukhsar later married filmmaker Faruk Kabir, but after 13 years, that marriage also ended in divorce. Reflecting on this painful experience, Rukhsar emphasized the importance of moving forward with acceptance and faith. She shared that every change in life brings lessons, both good and bad, and it is essential to embrace them and keep going.

Throughout this difficult period, her daughter Aisha played a crucial role in helping her heal. Rukhsar expressed deep gratitude for Aisha’s unwavering support, describing her as an exceptional daughter whose presence was invaluable during the heartbreak. The actress acknowledged that having Aisha by her side made a significant difference in navigating the challenges of her personal life.