Last Updated:January 11, 2026, 20:00 IST

Jay Bhanushali reacts to dating rumours involving ex-wife Mahhi Vij and Nadeem Nadz as Ankita Lokhande steps in to clarify their bond amid online trolling.

Jay Bhanushali reacted to the dating rumours surrounding his ex-wife Mahhi Vij and Nadeem Nadz after the speculation led to intense trolling online and a public clarification from Ankita Lokhande.

Actor and television host Jay Bhanushali has finally reacted to the dating rumours surrounding his ex-wife, Mahhi Vij, after speculation online spiralled into intense trolling. The chatter linked Mahhi to Nadeem Nadz, prompting widespread assumptions about her personal life following the couple’s recent separation.

The rumours began after Mahhi shared a heartfelt birthday post for Nadeem on Instagram, calling him her “best friend” and expressing affection in her caption. The situation escalated when Mahhi later restricted comments on the post, which further fuelled speculation among social media users.

Ankita Lokhande Steps In With a Strong Defence

While Mahhi chose to stay silent amid the noise, her close friend Ankita Lokhande decided to address the situation head-on. Taking to her Instagram Stories on Sunday, January 11, Ankita posted a long and emotional note condemning the trolling and clarifying the nature of Mahhi’s bond with Nadeem.

Ankita wrote that she was speaking not as a public figure but as a deeply concerned friend who personally knows Mahhi, Jay, and Nadeem. She revealed that Nadeem has always been a father figure to both Mahhi and Jay, and continues to play a guiding role in their daughter Tara’s life.

“That’s it. Nothing else,” Ankita emphasised, firmly shutting down the dating rumours.

‘Some Bonds Are Built on Trust, Not Gossip’

In her note, Ankita urged people to stop drawing conclusions without understanding the history behind certain relationships. She described Nadeem as someone who has consistently stood by people during difficult times and referred to him as a “God-sent person” for many, including herself.

Calling out the negativity online, Ankita reminded trolls that not every bond needs to fit a romantic narrative. She also expressed her continued love and support for both Mahhi and Jay as co-parents, urging social media users to show compassion and restraint.

Jay Bhanushali Thanks Ankita for Speaking Up

Jay Bhanushali responded shortly after Ankita’s post went viral. Acknowledging her intervention, he commented, “Thank you Ankita and I agree to everything you said,” subtly backing her clarification and putting his support behind her words.

His response marked the first public acknowledgment from Jay regarding the controversy.

Jay and Mahhi’s Separation

Jay Bhanushali and Mahhi Vij announced their separation earlier this month, ending their 15-year-long marriage. In a joint statement shared on January 4, the former couple requested privacy and understanding as they navigate this new phase of their lives.

Married in 2011, Jay and Mahhi have long been considered one of television’s most loved couples. They are parents to three children — their biological daughter Tara, and two foster children, Rajveer and Khushi — and have reiterated their commitment to co-parenting with mutual respect.