Actor Ashish Vidyarthi's Ex-Wife Piloo on Keeping His Surname After Divorce: 'If You Marry Again...'
In a candid and heartfelt interview with News18 Showsha, Piloo Vidyarthi, the ex-wife of veteran actor Ashish Vidyarthi, opened up about her decision to retain her former husband’s surname after their amicable divorce in 2022. The couple, who parted ways after 22 years of marriage, have maintained a respectful and friendly relationship, co-parenting their son, Arth. Piloo’s choice to continue using the surname “Vidyarthi” has sparked curiosity, and her explanation sheds light on the complexities of personal identity and societal norms in India.
The Decision to Keep the Surname
Piloo, also known as Rajoshi Vidyarthi, addressed the question of why she still uses her ex-husband’s surname, stating, “The Indian system is complicated. There are so many things you need to consider before altering your name or surname. I am still struggling to change my address on my Aadhar card. If you marry again, the surname change becomes easier. I don’t find a powerful reason to change it.” Her pragmatic approach highlights the bureaucratic challenges of changing official documents in India, a process that can be daunting and time-consuming. For Piloo, retaining the surname is not about clinging to the past but about practicality and personal choice.
She further emphasized that neither she nor Ashish has any issue with her keeping the surname. “Neither Ashish has a problem with it nor I. Actually, what do I have to prove by changing my surname?” she remarked, underscoring the mutual respect that defines their post-divorce relationship. Piloo’s stance challenges societal expectations that often pressure women to alter their identities after a divorce, especially when remarriage is not on the horizon.
An Amicable Separation and Mutual Respect
Ashish Vidyarthi, known for his roles in films like Drohkaal and Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai, made headlines in 2023 when he married Assam-based fashion entrepreneur Rupali Barua at the age of 57. The announcement sparked widespread discussion, with some speculating about the circumstances of his divorce from Piloo. However, both Piloo and Ashish have consistently clarified that their separation in 2021, followed by a mutual divorce filing in October 2022, was handled with grace and dignity.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Piloo dispelled rumors of infidelity or hardship, stating, “Ashish never cheated on me. There was no torture, hardship or anything as people are speculating. We are two different people. For two years, we tried to go our separate paths.” She explained that their decision to part ways stemmed from differing visions for their futures, particularly after their son Arth moved abroad. “What he wants is different from my wants, they don’t match being married,” she added.
Piloo’s openness about their amicable split reflects her commitment to transparency and her desire to counter false narratives. She expressed frustration with public speculation, saying, “I am going bonkers with the interpretation people are having about us. This is not fair.” Her words highlight the societal tendency to sensationalize divorces, often overlooking the possibility of mutual respect and friendship post-separation.
Thoughts on Love, Marriage, and Independence
Piloo’s interview also touched on her perspective on modern relationships and her personal journey after the divorce. Describing many marriages as “pretentious and dishonest,” she emphasized the importance of authenticity in relationships. When asked if she had moved on emotionally, Piloo affirmed, “Yes, I have. I don’t feel a lack of anything. I don’t miss any luxury. But sure, there are small things, like not having a partner.” However, she made it clear that remarriage is not a priority for her, stating, “I’m open to love if at all, but not remarriage at this point in time.”
Her comments reflect a strong sense of independence and self-awareness. Piloo, who recently made her Bollywood debut in Akelli alongside Nushrratt Bharuccha, is focused on carving her own path as an artist. She has also been involved in projects with major banners like Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions, signaling a promising career ahead. Her decision to retain the surname “Vidyarthi” is not about holding onto her past identity as “Mrs. Vidyarthi” but about embracing her journey as an individual with a rich personal and professional history.
Supportive Co-Parenting and a Positive Outlook
Piloo and Ashish’s commitment to co-parenting their son Arth remains a cornerstone of their relationship. Piloo has spoken fondly of Arth, describing him as “an amazing human being” who supports her choices. Ashish, too, has emphasized their collaborative approach, noting that they involved Arth in their discussions about the divorce to ensure transparency. Their ability to maintain a friendly and supportive dynamic post-divorce sets a powerful example of how separations can be handled with maturity.
Piloo also expressed goodwill toward Ashish’s new wife, Rupali Barua, saying, “Rupali is now writing Barua. I write Vidyarthi and she never has any issue with it. She is also a very simple person.” This mutual respect extends to their professional lives as well, with Ashish publicly supporting Piloo’s debut in Akelli by sharing its trailer on his Instagram story.
A Broader Perspective on Identity and Choice
Piloo’s decision to keep the Vidyarthi surname is not just a personal choice but a commentary on the societal pressures women face regarding their identities after divorce. Her statement, “If you marry again, the surname change becomes easier,” points to the cultural expectation that a woman’s surname is often tied to her marital status. By choosing to retain “Vidyarthi,” Piloo asserts her autonomy and challenges the notion that a woman must redefine herself entirely after a marriage ends.
Her story resonates with many who navigate the complexities of identity, relationships, and personal growth in the public eye. Piloo’s transparency, coupled with her focus on her career and independence, makes her a compelling figure in the entertainment industry. As she continues to take on new roles, both on-screen and in life, Piloo Vidyarthi remains a beacon of resilience and authenticity.
Conclusion
Piloo Vidyarthi’s decision to keep her ex-husband’s surname after their divorce is rooted in practicality, personal history, and a rejection of societal pressure to conform. Her candid reflections on her amicable separation from Ashish Vidyarthi, her thoughts on love and marriage, and her commitment to her career and son offer a refreshing perspective on navigating life after divorce. As Piloo continues to shine in her professional endeavors, her story serves as an inspiration for embracing one’s choices with confidence and grace.
Disclaimer: This blog is based on publicly available information from interviews and does not reflect personal opinions or endorsements.
