Television actress Mahhi Vij has revealed that she refused to accept alimony or maintenance from former husband Jay Bhanushali, even after a judge reportedly urged her four times to reconsider. The actress explained that she considers the money Jay’s hard-earned income and wants to secure her children’s future through her own efforts.
Mahhi made the emotional revelation during a recent episode of Bigg Boss 20, where she opened up about single motherhood and the challenges of raising her daughter Tara following her separation from Jay in January 2026.
Mahhi Vij Reveals Why She Refused Alimony
Speaking to fellow contestant Aasif Khan, Mahhi explained that she had consciously decided against seeking financial support during the couple’s divorce proceedings.
“I didn’t take a single penny in alimony or even ask for maintenance,” she said.
Recalling her court appearance, Mahhi claimed that the judge repeatedly encouraged her to reconsider the decision. However, she remained firm because she had witnessed Jay working long hours to build his career.
“It’s his hard-earned money,” she explained, adding that Jay sometimes worked 16-hour shifts.
Importantly, Mahhi clarified that her decision did not mean Jay was unwilling to help financially.
According to the actress, he has consistently offered support and encouraged her to spend more time pursuing her own interests instead of remaining at home with Tara.
Her comments reflect her personal approach to financial independence rather than a broader judgment about whether divorced spouses should seek maintenance.
Mahhi Breaks Down After Argument With Arishfa Khan
The conversation followed an emotional confrontation with fellow Bigg Boss 20 contestant Arishfa Khan.
Their disagreement escalated after Mahhi made remarks concerning Arishfa’s upbringing, which the influencer found hurtful because she had been raised by a single mother.
Mahhi subsequently apologised, but the subject resurfaced during another argument.
The exchange left the actress visibly emotional as she discussed the pressures of motherhood and her determination to provide a secure future for her children.
She explained that much of her daily life revolves around Tara, even though Jay encourages her to take breaks and enjoy her personal life.
Mahhi Vij and Jay Bhanushali’s Separation
Mahhi and Jay announced their separation on January 4, 2026, ending their marriage after approximately 14 years.
The former couple share daughter Tara, born in 2019, and also care for Khushi and Rajveer, whom they welcomed into their family in 2017.
In their joint announcement, they emphasized mutual respect, friendship and their commitment to raising their children together.
Mahhi had previously dismissed rumours claiming she demanded ₹5 crore in alimony.
Her latest Bigg Boss disclosure offers further context about that decision, while highlighting the distinction between refusing personal financial maintenance and continuing to share parenting responsibilities.
Although Mahhi has described what happened during the court proceedings, the judge’s reported advice comes from her account rather than a publicly verified court record.
