Abhishek Bachchan opens up on 18-year marriage with Aishwarya Rai, shuts down ‘who is more successful’ debate

Actor Abhishek Bachchan has addressed long-standing speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, offering a candid perspective on partnership, “ego” and parenting in a recent interaction with Lilly Singh.

For years, the couple—married since 2007—have been at the centre of online chatter around their relationship. Despite recurring rumours of separation, they have continued to make public appearances together, often choosing not to directly respond to speculation.

Speaking about his relationship, Abhishek Bachchan described his marriage as a partnership that has evolved naturally over time. He emphasized that there were never rigid roles or expectations placed on either partner.

Reflecting on his upbringing, he pointed out that his parents—Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan—also shared a similar dynamic, where his mother was the bigger star at the time of their marriage.

Addressing the idea of “ego”, Bachchan clarified that he uses the term in a non-traditional sense. Rather than insecurity, he described it as a mindset rooted in self-assurance.

According to him, he does not believe a relationship should require one partner to step back for the other to feel successful. “I don’t want to be in a marriage where my wife has to stop doing something so I can feel more secure,” he said, adding that Aishwarya Rai shares a similar outlook.

Abhishek also spoke about his early association with Aishwarya Rai, noting that they first worked together early in his career and were initially just friends.

Their bond, he said, grew over time—from friendship to courtship, and eventually marriage—without any forced expectations. He highlighted that their relationship has always been built on mutual respect rather than defined gender roles.

The actor also opened up about raising their daughter, Aaradhya Bachchan, offering insights into his parenting approach.

In a candid remark, he said that “fathers are lousy teachers”, explaining that men often struggle with emotional sensitivity compared to women. However, he stressed that parenting is less about instruction and more about example.

Both he and Aishwarya, he said, focus on leading by action rather than laying down rules. “Instead of telling children what is right or wrong, show them through your behaviour,” he explained.

He also noted that there is no sense of competition within their household regarding traditional roles, adding that values and behaviour are what ultimately shape a child’s upbringing.

Beyond Rumours And Public Scrutiny

Abhishek Bachchan’s remarks come amid years of online speculation about his marriage. Rather than directly addressing rumours, his comments offer a broader perspective on relationships—centred on equality, respect and individual growth.

As the couple approaches nearly two decades of marriage, his statements underline a consistent theme: a partnership that prioritises balance over comparison, and mutual support over traditional expectations.