In a strong show of solidarity, television actor Ankita Lokhande has publicly defended her friend and colleague Mahhi Vij against what she termed "disturbing" online comments. This comes after trolls began speculating about a romantic link between the recently divorced Mahhi and Nadeem Nadz, the CEO of Salman Khan Films.
A Friendship Defended Against Baseless Rumours
The controversy ignited after Mahhi Vij shared a heartfelt birthday wish for Nadeem Nadz on social media on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Her affectionate post, where she called him her "family" and "safe place," led some online users to misinterpret their close bond. The speculation intensified after Mahhi disabled comments on the post.
Stepping in to set the record straight, Ankita Lokhande used her Instagram Story on Sunday, January 11, 2026, to issue a clarion call. She wrote a lengthy note clarifying the nature of the relationship, stating she was speaking not as a celebrity but as a friend who knows all parties involved intimately.
"Nadeem has always been a father figure to Mahi and Jai, and a father to Tara. That's it. Nothing else," Ankita asserted emphatically. She praised Nadeem for being a pillar of support during difficult times and urged those spreading negativity to stop, adding a warning that "Karma is watching."
Ex-Husband Jai Bhanushali's Agreement and Co-Parenting Stance
In a significant move that highlights their amicable separation, Mahhi's ex-husband, actor Jai Bhanushali, promptly reposted Ankita Lokhande's Instagram Story. He endorsed her statement fully, writing, "Thank You Ankita and I agree with every word you have said." Mahhi Vij also shared the story without adding a caption, letting Ankita's words stand for themselves.
This public agreement underscores the couple's commitment to a harmonious co-parenting relationship following their divorce announcement on January 4, 2026. In their joint statement, they had vowed to continue having each other's back and to be the "best parents" and "best friends" for the sake of their three children: daughters Tara and Khushi, and son Ranjveer.
The family's unified front was further evident at Nadeem's birthday celebration itself. While Mahhi posted a picture with him, she also shared a photo of Nadeem with her daughter Tara, calling him "Abba" (father). Jai Bhanushali was also present at the party and shared warm birthday wishes for Nadeem on his own social media.
Addressing the Trolling Aftermath
This is not the first time Mahhi Vij has had to confront online trolling since the divorce. In her first YouTube vlog after the announcement, she addressed vicious rumours claiming she had taken a hefty alimony of Rs 5 crore from Jai.
"Don't act with half-knowledge," Mahhi had said, expressing dismay at people pulling out old videos for engagement. She firmly stated that their financial situation was stable and that both were fully capable of caring for their children, dismissing narratives that suggested otherwise.
The episode highlights the intense and often cruel scrutiny faced by public figures, especially women, during personal life transitions. The swift defence mounted by Ankita Lokhande and supported by Jai Bhanushali serves as a reminder of the importance of clarifying facts and standing up against malicious gossip.
