Rajesh Khanna and Anita Advani's Legal Battle Concludes

The legal battle between Rajesh Khanna's family and Anita Advani has reached a significant conclusion as the Bombay High Court dismisses Advani's petition to recognize her relationship with the late superstar as a marriage. This ruling ends a 14-year dispute that began after Khanna's death in 2012. The court found no merit in Advani's claims, which she had maintained in various interviews, asserting a marital bond with Khanna. The case has garnered considerable media attention, especially with the revelations about their relationship dynamics. As the court's decision stands, it marks the end of a long-standing controversy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 2, 2026, 13:51 IST

Legal Dispute Resolution

The long-standing legal conflict surrounding the relationship between Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Hindi cinema, and Anita Advani appears to be reaching a conclusion. The Bombay High Court has dismissed Anita's petition, which sought to recognize their relationship as a marriage. This ruling effectively puts an end to a debate that has persisted for nearly 14 years, bringing the case back into the spotlight.

The High Court firmly stated that Anita Advani's appeal lacked merit and thus was rejected. Previously, the Dindoshi Sessions Court had also dismissed her claims, a decision now upheld by the High Court. Justice Sharmila Deshmukh's bench heard arguments from both sides before delivering this verdict. While the complete written order from the court is still pending, the ruling is seen as a legal closure to the matter.

Background of the Case

This case began 14 years ago, with Rajesh Khanna's family presenting a strong defense. Notable family members, including Akshay Kumar, Twinkle Khanna, and Dimple Kapadia, argued against Anita's claims. The controversy ignited after Rajesh Khanna's passing in 2012 when Anita asserted that she was his wife and had been in a marital relationship with him. She has openly discussed their relationship in various interviews.

Anita claimed that their bond was more than mere friendship or cohabitation; she described it as akin to marriage. In one interview, she stated, 'We had a private wedding. People in the film industry do not openly discuss such matters. We never felt the need to announce our marriage to the world.' She elaborated on their supposed wedding, mentioning that it took place in the temple of their home.

Details of Their Relationship

Anita recounted, 'We had a small temple at home. I had made a mangalsutra for myself, which he put on me. Then he filled my parting with sindoor and said, 'From today, you are my responsibility.' That was how our wedding happened one night.' Her revelations shocked many, as she claimed their relationship began long before Rajesh met Dimple Kapadia, although they could not marry at that time.

Anita also shared some troubling aspects of their relationship, stating, 'Sometimes he would hit me, and I would retaliate. That was my reaction. He would say that my nails hurt him.' With the court's decision, this legal saga seems to be coming to a close.