Malaika Arora Indian Actress and Dancer
Malaika Arora is a prominent Indian actress, dancer, model, VJ, and television personality who has significantly impacted Bollywood with her charisma, dance skills, and fashion sense. From the iconic “Chaiyya Chaiyya” dance number to becoming a fashion icon and fitness entrepreneur, Malaika’s journey is both inspiring and multifaceted. She continues to dominate the entertainment world with elegance, resilience, and an unshakeable brand identity.
Malaika Arora Early Life and Education
Malaika Arora was born on 23 October 1973 in Thane, Maharashtra, India, into a multicultural family. Her father, Anil Arora, was a Punjabi who worked with the Indian Merchant Navy, while her mother, Joyce Polycarp, is a Malayali Catholic who played a pivotal role in Malaika’s upbringing after her parents’ separation.
After her parents separated, Malaika moved to Chembur, Mumbai with her mother and younger sister, Amrita Arora, who also later joined the film industry. Malaika’s name, meaning “angel” in Swahili, foretold a life of glamour and brilliance.
She completed her early education at Swami Vivekanand School, Chembur. Later, she attended Holy Cross High School, Thane. Known for being a bright and expressive student, she was deeply involved in extracurricular activities, especially dance.
Malaika went on to pursue a degree in Economics and minor in Communications at Jai Hind College, Mumbai. However, she did not complete her college degree as she was soon drawn into the world of modeling and television.
Malaika Arora Career Beginnings: VJ and Modeling
Malaika Arora’s entry into the entertainment world began in the early 1990s as a Video Jockey (VJ) for MTV India, shortly after its launch in India. She was among the first VJs who brought glamour and energy to the youth-centric channel. Her bold personality and stunning looks quickly made her a fan favorite.
At MTV, she hosted shows like “Club MTV,” “Style Check,” and “Love Line”, establishing herself as a television personality. This exposure opened doors to modeling, where she became a favorite for music videos and ad campaigns.
She featured in numerous ad commercials for high-end brands such as Nirma, Tanishq, MR Coffee, and Ponds, which earned her fame as a leading model of the 90s.
Breakthrough: “Chaiyya Chaiyya” and Item Numbers
Malaika Arora shot to national fame with the legendary dance number “Chaiyya Chaiyya” alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the 1998 film Dil Se, choreographed by Farah Khan and set atop a moving train. The song remains iconic in Indian pop culture and marked Malaika’s breakthrough in Bollywood.
Following this success, she became the undisputed queen of item numbers in Hindi cinema. Some of her most popular dance numbers include:
- “Munni Badnaam Hui” – Dabangg (2010)
- “Maahi Ve” – Kaante (2002)
- “Kaal Dhamaal” – Kaal (2005)
- “Anarkali Disco Chali” – Housefull 2 (2012)
- “Fashion Khatam Mujh Pe” – Dolly Ki Doli (2015)
Her energetic performances and sensuous screen presence earned her both fans and critics, solidifying her status as the leading item girl of her era.
Malaika Arora Acting Career and Film Production
While Malaika primarily stayed away from full-fledged acting roles, she made cameo appearances in films such as:
- EMI (2008)
- Housefull (2010)
- Happy New Year (2014)
In 2008, she turned producer with her then-husband Arbaaz Khan under the banner Arbaaz Khan Productions. Their first film, Dabangg (2010), starring Salman Khan, was a massive commercial success and won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
She continued to co-produce Dabangg 2 (2012) and Dolly Ki Doli (2015).
Television Career: Judge and Mentor
Apart from her work in music videos and films, Malaika became a household name as a judge and mentor in Indian reality television shows:
- Nach Baliye (Season 1 & 2) – Star Plus (Judge)
- Zara Nachke Dikha – Star One (Judge)
- India’s Got Talent – Colors (Multiple Seasons)
- Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa – Colors (Judge)
- Supermodel of the Year – MTV India (Mentor/Judge)
- India’s Best Dancer – Sony TV (Judge)
Her stylish on-screen persona, candid nature, and keen eye for talent made her one of the most respected judges in the Indian reality TV circuit.
Fitness and Entrepreneurship
In recent years, Malaika Arora has reinvented herself as a fitness icon and entrepreneur. A yoga enthusiast, she is widely admired for her age-defying physique and dedication to wellness.
In 2018, she launched her holistic wellness brand called Sarabellum, under which she also owns the Divayoga studio in Mumbai. Her brand promotes physical and mental well-being, healthy living, and yoga.
She is also one of the key investors in SARVA Yoga, a yoga and wellness start-up founded by Sarvesh Shashi, focusing on integrating yoga with technology.
In addition, she collaborated with The Label Life, a lifestyle brand where she served as the style editor for fashion.
Social Media Influence
Malaika Arora enjoys a massive following on social media, where she shares glimpses of her yoga sessions, fashion photoshoots, travel diaries, and motivational content. Her Instagram is a testament to her vibrant lifestyle and health-conscious living.
Official Social Media Handles:
- Instagram: @malaikaaroraofficial
(Over 18 million followers as of 2025) - Twitter (X): @MalaikaArora
- Facebook: Malaika Arora Official
Personal Life
Malaika Arora married actor-director Arbaaz Khan in 1998. They were one of Bollywood’s most stylish couples and have a son, Arhaan Khan, born in 2002. However, after 18 years of marriage, Malaika and Arbaaz divorced in 2017, citing compatibility issues. Despite the separation, they have maintained a cordial co-parenting relationship.
Since her divorce, Malaika has been in a high-profile relationship with actor Arjun Kapoor, which she has confirmed publicly. Their relationship, though initially met with media scrutiny due to the age gap, has been appreciated for its honesty and openness.
Malaika is also close to her sister Amrita Arora, a former actress and socialite, and shares a tight-knit bond with her inner circle, which includes Kareena Kapoor Khan and Karisma Kapoor.
Awards and Recognition
While Malaika Arora hasn’t received traditional acting awards, she has been recognized for her contributions to fashion, fitness, and television:
- Style Diva of the Year – HT Most Stylish Awards
- Fitness Icon Award – GlobalSpa Fit & Fab Show
- Social Media Personality – Lokmat Digital Influencer Awards
- Fashion Influencer of the Year – Cosmopolitan Beauty Awards
Net Worth and Business Earnings
As of 2025, Malaika Arora’s estimated net worth is approximately ₹100–120 crore INR (USD $12–15 million). Her income streams are diversified across modeling, television shows, brand endorsements, business investments, and social media influence.
Major Revenue Sources:
- ₹8–10 lakh per episode for judging reality TV shows
- Brand endorsements (Lotus Herbals, Dabur, Reebok, etc.)
- Yoga studio and wellness venture earnings
- Production royalties from Arbaaz Khan Productions (past association)
- Sponsored Instagram posts (earning ₹5–10 lakh per post on average)
She lives in a luxurious sea-facing apartment in Bandra, Mumbai, and owns several high-end cars including a Range Rover, BMW 7 Series, and Audi Q7.
Style Icon and Fashion Trailblazer
Malaika Arora is considered a style icon in India, admired for her sartorial choices that blend bold glamour with grace. From red carpet appearances to gym looks, she has redefined age and style boundaries, often featured in fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle, Femina, and Grazia.
She is a regular attendee at fashion weeks and often walks the ramp for top designers like Manish Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani, and Falguni Shane Peacock.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Malaika is actively involved in various social causes. She supports campaigns for animal welfare, women’s health, mental well-being, and cancer awareness. She has worked with organizations such as PETA India, Nanhi Kali, and The Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA).
Legacy and Impact
Malaika Arora’s journey is a celebration of resilience, reinvention, and self-love. From being known as the “item girl” to becoming a symbol of fitness and elegance, she has continually evolved in the public eye. Her influence goes beyond films, making her a trendsetter in lifestyle and an inspiration for women across ages.
In a youth-obsessed industry, she has boldly redefined aging by embracing her 50s with confidence, proving that glamour, success, and reinvention know no age.
Conclusion
Malaika Arora’s biography is a compelling tale of ambition, transformation, and enduring charm. With a career spanning over two decades, she remains one of the most influential personalities in Indian pop culture. Whether it’s through her unforgettable dance numbers, fitness endeavors, or fashion statements, Malaika continues to inspire and innovate.
