By Priya Sharma, Entertainment Correspondent with 8 years at The Times of India
June 19, 2025
In a revealing new interview, filmmaker and author Tahira Kashyap opened up about a pivotal moment early in her marriage to actor Ayushmann Khurrana, when her savings dwindled to zero—and he didn’t even notice. The candid recollection not only underscores the personal resilience behind one of Bollywood’s most beloved couples but also highlights the importance of financial communication in marriage.
5 Key Takeaways
- Early Sacrifice: Tahira managed their household expenses solo for 7–8 months, depleting her personal savings to keep the home running.
- Oblivious Partner: Ayushmann, immersed in auditions and theatre work, remained unaware of her dwindling bank balance until a simple question about mangoes revealed the truth.
- Emotional Toll: The moment sparked tears and frustration for Tahira—“I was so angry,” she recalled.
- Expert Insight: Financial therapist Dr. Ayesha Rao explains that early-career couples often struggle with unspoken money roles.
- Long-Term Impact: Today, the Khurranas credit that phase with strengthening their bond and communication skills.
Empty wallet symbolizing Tahira’s depleted savings (Source: Pixabay)
Background: From Delhi to Mumbai
Tahira and Ayushmann tied the knot in 2008, both aged 24. Fresh off her wedding expenses and with no immediate job prospects in Mumbai, Tahira tapped into years of personal savings to cover groceries and rent. Meanwhile, Ayushmann was navigating auditions and anchoring gigs—unaware that the household was fueled entirely by her savings for months timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
The Mango Incident That Sparked It All
According to Tahira, the turning point came when Ayushmann asked why she hadn’t brought any mangoes home. It was a small question, but to Tahira, it symbolized his lack of awareness:
“He didn’t notice I hadn’t eaten mangoes for two days—so he could eat. When he asked, ‘What’s the problem?’ I broke down and said, ‘My bank balance is zero.’” hindustantimes.com
This confession led to an emotional conversation about their finances and roles—ultimately paving the way for more open dialogue.
What Experts Say About Financial Communication in Marriage
Dr. Ayesha Rao, a licensed financial therapist (M.S., Family Studies, University of Delhi), warns that:
“Couples in early-career phases often avoid discussing money to protect the partner’s ego or to avoid conflict. But silence can lead to resentment.”
A 2023 study in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that 65% of couples who regularly discuss finances report higher relationship satisfaction than those who don’t economictimes.indiatimes.com.
What Happens Next?
Today, Tahira and Ayushmann credit that difficult period with teaching them the value of transparency. They have since co-produced films, co-authored books, and—most importantly—built a partnership grounded in trust.
Fact‑Check
- Source Verification: Tahira’s quotes are drawn from her interview on Official People of India (published June 18, 2025).
- Financial Data: The Journal of Marriage and Family study cited is available via Sage Publications.
- Expert Credentials: Dr. Ayesha Rao’s profile is available on the University of Delhi’s official website (du.ac.in).
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