Akshay Kumar and Shilpa Shetty, two prominent figures in Bollywood, were once in a serious relationship that almost led to marriage in the 1990s. Filmmaker Suneel Darshan, a frequent collaborator with Akshay Kumar, recently revealed that the couple was very close to tying the knot. However, certain conditions set by Shilpa Shetty's parents reportedly became a significant obstacle, ultimately leading to their separation.
According to Suneel Darshan, Shilpa's parents had specific requirements for their daughter's security before agreeing to the marriage. While the exact nature of these conditions remains undisclosed, Darshan hinted that they were not fulfilled, which contributed to the couple's breakup. When questioned whether the conditions related to financial security, Darshan responded that parents desire "security of all kinds" for their children. He also added that he did not fully agree with the approach taken by Shilpa's parents. "I thought it was wrong of the parents. It was not destined to happen. Let's look at it that way," he stated.
Darshan also reflected on the situation, calling Akshay and Shilpa a "good looking couple" and adding that "destiny has its own plans". He recounted an incident where an astrologer close to Twinkle Khanna's father, Rajesh Khanna, predicted that Akshay and Twinkle would marry someday. At the time, Darshan dismissed the prediction, but in retrospect, he found it ironic. He remarked, "Look at the coincidence, had Shilpa's parents not placed those conditions, life would have taken a different turn".
Following the breakup, Akshay Kumar immersed himself in his work, juggling multiple film projects such as 'Dhadkan', 'Hera Pheri', and 'Ek Rishta'. Darshan, when asked if Akshay was heartbroken at the time, said, “His heart was not broken. I thought he was doing well. He was coming back". Akshay Kumar eventually married Twinkle Khanna in 2001, and they now have two children. Shilpa Shetty married Raj Kundra in 2009, and they also have two children.
The revelation by Suneel Darshan provides a glimpse into the personal lives of these Bollywood stars and the factors that influenced their relationship. While Akshay Kumar and Shilpa Shetty have not publicly addressed their past relationship, Darshan's insights offer a new perspective on their separation and the circumstances surrounding it.
