Malaika Arora embarked on her modelling career during her college years, ultimately carving out a significant niche for herself in the glamour industry. In a recent discussion, she shared that her early entry into the workforce was driven by a desire for independence. Nevertheless, this journey was fraught with difficulties. 

In a recent episode of Curly Tales, Malaika disclosed that her mother, Joyce Polycarp, frequently received calls from her college due to her low attendance.

Malaika looks back

During the discussion, Malaika inquired about her entry into the modelling industry while attending college.

In response, she stated, “I completed my two years at Jai Hind College... After that, I began my modelling career. It became increasingly challenging as my mother started receiving calls from the college regarding my inadequate attendance.”

She recounted that she began participating in several advertisements and shows. Subsequently, she communicated to her mother her desire to work, expressing her wish for independence.

At this juncture, Malaika was questioned whether her motivation was the pursuit of fame or independence.

“I aspire to be independent. I sought to engage in activities that provided me with a sense of value. Regarding finances, money is merely a byproduct of any endeavour. I did not need to support a household, but I believed it was beneficial to assist my mother, who was a single parent. I felt it was important to contribute to our situation, not that my mother ever anticipated it, but I considered it my responsibility as the elder daughter,” she explained.

In the past

Malaika frequently shares photographs featuring her mother, Joyce. In a 2022 interview with Grazia, she reflected on her relationship with her mother, noting that she began to see her through "a new and unique lens."

Malaika remarked, “I had a wonderful childhood, but it was not without its challenges. In hindsight, I would describe it as tumultuous. However, difficult times impart valuable lessons. My parents' separation provided me with the opportunity to view my mother from a different perspective.”

At the age of 11, Malaika experienced the separation of her parents—her mother, Joyce Polycarp, and her late father, Anil Arora. At that time, her younger sister, actress Amrita Arora, was just six years old. Following the divorce, the sisters relocated with their mother, Joyce, from Thane to Chembur, where they were raised.

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