From Raveena Tandon to Twinkle Khanna: Akshay Kumar's Enduring Bollywood Love Story

Akshay Kumar, one of Bollywood's most enduring and successful actors, has had a romantic journey as captivating as his on-screen roles. His relationships, particularly during his rise to superstardom, were often the subject of intense media scrutiny, culminating in a stable and long-lasting marriage that has become a benchmark in the industry. His love life reflects a transition from high-profile, often tumultuous, romances to a deeply private and committed partnership.

Before his marriage, Akshay Kumar was linked to several prominent actresses, with his relationships often making headlines due to their public nature. One of his earliest notable relationships was with actress Pooja Batra. Their relationship reportedly began in the early 1990s, around the time Akshay was establishing himself in the film industry. While not as extensively documented as his later relationships, it was a known affair in Bollywood circles before they eventually parted ways.

His most high-profile and widely publicized relationship of the 1990s was with actress Raveena Tandon. Their romance blossomed in the mid-1990s, captivating fans and the media alike. They were considered one of Bollywood's most glamorous couples, often appearing together at events and in films. Their on-screen chemistry in movies like Mohra was undeniable, further fueling public interest in their real-life romance. Reports at the time suggested they were even secretly engaged, with Tandon later confirming this in interviews. However, their relationship came to an end around 1998, with various reports citing reasons ranging from commitment issues on Kumar's part to his alleged proximity to other co-stars.

Following his split from Raveena Tandon, Akshay Kumar entered into another significant relationship with actress Shilpa Shetty. Their romance began in the late 1990s, shortly after his breakup with Tandon, and quickly became a hot topic in the entertainment industry. They starred together in several successful films, including Main Khiladi Tu Anari and Dhadkan, which only amplified public fascination with their real-life pairing. Shetty was reportedly deeply invested in the relationship, and their potential marriage was widely speculated upon. However, their relationship concluded around 2000, amidst widespread rumors of Kumar's alleged infidelity, which Shetty later publicly addressed, expressing her heartbreak. The end of this relationship marked a significant turning point in Kumar's romantic life.

It was shortly after these high-profile relationships that Akshay Kumar met Twinkle Khanna, daughter of legendary actors Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia. Their initial meeting reportedly occurred during a photo shoot for Filmfare magazine, and their connection was immediate. Their relationship was initially a private affair, but it soon became clear that this was different from his previous romances. Twinkle Khanna, known for her wit and strong personality, reportedly brought a sense of stability and maturity to Kumar's life. Their courtship was relatively brief but intense, leading to a decision to marry.

Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna tied the knot in a private ceremony on January 17, 2001. Their wedding was a low-key affair, a stark contrast to the public nature of his previous relationships, reflecting their desire for a more private life together. The couple quickly became one of Bollywood's power duos, known for their strong bond and mutual respect. Twinkle Khanna largely stepped away from acting after marriage to focus on her family and later pursued a successful career as an author and interior designer.

Their marriage has been marked by enduring love and mutual support, weathering the intense scrutiny that comes with being a celebrity couple. They have two children: a son, Aarav Bhatia, born in 2002, and a daughter, Nitara Bhatia, born in 2012. Akshay Kumar often credits Twinkle Khanna for his stability and success, and their relationship is frequently cited as an example of a successful Bollywood marriage. Twinkle Khanna, in turn, has often spoken about their strong friendship and the respect they share.

Akshay Kumar's romantic journey, from his early, highly publicized relationships with actresses like Raveena Tandon and Shilpa Shetty to his enduring marriage with Twinkle Khanna, illustrates a significant evolution in his personal life. He transitioned from a reputation as a charming but non-committal actor to a devoted family man, a shift largely attributed to his partnership with Khanna. Their two-decade-long marriage stands as a testament to their strong foundation and shared values, making them one of Bollywood's most respected and admired couples.