Poonam Dhillon Shares Throwback, Remembers Late Friends

Veteran Bollywood actor Poonam Dhillon took to social media to share a heartfelt throwback picture, remembering her late friends — composer Aadesh Srivastava and actors Rishi Kapoor and Rajiv Kapoor.

The image, believed to be from Aadesh Srivastava’s birthday celebration, features several prominent Bollywood personalities, including Amitabh Bachchan. Alongside the post, Dhillon wrote:

“Memories of my Dear Friend Aadesh’s birthday. Miss you my friends Aadesh, Chintu ji & Chimpu.”

The tribute highlighted her emotional connection with the three late personalities, all of whom left a lasting impact on Indian cinema and music.

Aadesh Srivastava passed away in 2015 after battling cancer, while Rishi Kapoor died in 2020 following a prolonged fight with leukemia. Rajiv Kapoor passed away in 2021 due to cardiac arrest.

A Cherished On-Screen Bond with Rishi Kapoor

Poonam Dhillon shared a close professional association with Rishi Kapoor, having starred opposite him in films like Yeh Vaada Raha and Karz. Their on-screen pairing was widely appreciated by audiences and remains memorable among fans of classic Bollywood cinema.

Reflecting on Marriage and Divorce

In a separate interaction, the 63-year-old actor opened up about her personal life, particularly her marriage and subsequent divorce from producer Ashok Thakeria.

Married in 1988, the couple separated after nine years. Reflecting on that phase, Dhillon said her upbringing and the nature of the film industry limited her exposure to relationships.

“We start shooting in the morning and come back at night… you weren’t meeting any real people your age. So, you didn’t have a judgment of really how your life partner should be.”

She also spoke about coming from a strict family where dating was discouraged:

“Whatever little teenage thing… you did chupke chupke, which is not the way.”

Dhillon emphasized that while her ex-husband is a “very nice person,” compatibility plays a crucial role in sustaining a relationship.

“Two nice people do not necessarily make a good couple… it’s about upbringing, values, and interests.”

Life After Separation: Grace and Growth

Despite her divorce, Dhillon shared that she considers herself fortunate. She noted that she was treated with respect post-separation and did not face uncomfortable situations socially or professionally.

Her primary focus remained on raising her two children, and she now encourages them to meet people and understand compatibility before making life decisions.

Expert Insight: Staying Cordial After Separation

Psychotherapist Delnna Rrajesh highlighted that separation does not have to lead to hostility.

“While two individuals may stop being partners, they don’t have to become enemies. That isn’t weakness — that is emotional mastery.”

She added that prioritising compatibility over fleeting chemistry and choosing peace can lead to healthier outcomes for both individuals.