Vijay Mallya's two marriages and another strong rumour. An air hostess, childhood friend and another air hostess

Time of India

3 hours ago

Vijay Mallya, once celebrated as the flamboyant "King of Good Times" and a towering figure in Indian business, is as well-known for his personal relationships as for his business empire and controversies. His love life has seen significant turns—from a mid-air romance with an air hostess to rekindling childhood affection and whispers of another relationship with a much younger cabin crew member.
The First Marriage: Love at 30,000 Feet
In 1986, during a business trip to the United States, Vijay Mallya boarded an Air India flight, where he encountered
Sameera Tyabjee
, a young and striking air hostess. The attraction was instant, and after several conversations on the flight, Mallya proposed mid-air—a story that has often been highlighted in media reports. The couple married within the same year and soon welcomed a son, Siddhartha Mallya.
Their life took a new direction when they moved to England. However, what began with a romantic proposal eventually faced challenges. Over time, differences emerged, and their marriage ended in divorce. The reasons cited in various reports point towards growing personal disagreements, although specific details remain private.
Rekindling Childhood Affection: Second Marriage to Rekha
Following his separation from Sameera, Vijay Mallya reconnected with Rekha, a woman he had admired since childhood. Rekha, who had been married twice before, was also going through a separation at the time. She had two children from her previous marriage—Kabir and Laila.
The couple's bond deepened quickly, leading to marriage in 1993. Vijay Mallya officially adopted Rekha's daughter Laila, treating her as his own. Together, they also had two daughters, Leanna and Tanya. Although media reports have occasionally hinted at a separation, no official confirmation has come forth, and Rekha has maintained a low public profile.
Rumoured Romance With Younger Cabin Crew: Pinky Lalwani
In the years following his legal troubles and eventual exit from India, Vijay Mallya became linked with Pinky Lalwani, a former air hostess for
Kingfisher Airlines
who is reportedly 23 years younger. The two are said to have developed a close relationship while working together.
Pinky Lalwani has been seen accompanying Mallya to various public appearances, including his court hearings in London, which intensified speculation about their partnership. Several insiders suggest that they have been living together for years, though neither has publicly confirmed marriage. Reports also mention that she resides in his Hertfordshire mansion.
Vijay Mallya's life is a blend of grand successes, dramatic falls, and personal stories. His two confirmed marriages—to Sameera Tyabjee and Rekha Mallya—and the persistent rumours surrounding his relationship with Pinky Lalwani, reflect the complex and often private side of a man known more for his business ventures and controversies.