Long-term relationships are often tested by external pressures — gossip, misunderstandings, or the scrutiny of others. But how people respond to these tests can reveal the foundation on which a relationship is built.
When speculation about an alleged affair between actors Nagarjuna and Tabu gained momentum, all eyes were on Amala Akkineni, Nagarjuna’s wife, and how she would react.
Instead of responding with outrage or denial, Amala addressed the situation calmly and clearly. Speaking to the Times of India in a 2006 interview, she said, “Nobody should bother what happens under my roof. I am happy.”
She continued, “And before you ask whether my husband and I have discussed this – no, never. My home is sacred, like a temple, and I don’t allow anything unpleasant from the film industry to come in, especially filthy gossip. I don’t encourage such talks. I feel it will contaminate my house.”
Talking about her bond with Tabu, she said, “I’m sure, even she must be hurt, but we never discuss it. Yes, she stays with us when she comes here.” She clarified that she shared a personal connection with Tabu and trusted her husband. “I have 100 percent faith in my husband, Nagarjuna, and my best friend, Tabu. Nothing will shake this belief.”
In another interview with TOI, Nagarjuna spoke about his friendship with Tabu, “Yes, Tabu is a fantastic friend of mine. Our friendship goes way back, since I was 21 or 22 and she was just 16 years old. That’s like almost half a lifetime… About our friendship, whatever is said is less. I have nothing to hide about her. When you mention her name, my face lights up.”
What role does trust play in navigating such situations?
Sonal Khangarot, a licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, tells indianexpress.com, “ In my work as a psychologist, I’ve seen that how a couple navigates suspicion depends entirely on the existing bond and trust equity in the relationship. When a couple shares emotional safety, mutual respect, and open communication, they’re less likely to let such doubts spiral into rupture.”
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She adds that in a healthy relationship, where partners have cultivated honesty, accountability, and emotional responsiveness over time, such moments become a call for deeper conversation — not silent punishment or emotional shutdown. On the other hand, when there’s already emotional neglect, unmet needs, or a pattern of defensiveness, mere speculation can feel like proof.
The work, then, Khangarot states, if a couple wants to move through this without damage, is not to obsess over the speculation — but to examine the relationship culture they’ve co-created. “Trust is less about being sure someone won’t hurt you, and more about knowing that if hurt arises, you’ll both face it with honesty, care, and effort.”
How can shared friendships and mutual respect between spouses and third parties help prevent insecurity in a relationship?
When someone chooses to respond to rumours with calm confidence instead of confrontation, it reflects a high level of emotional maturity and security in themselves and their relationship. It shows they don’t feel the need to defend what they already trust. Rather than reacting impulsively or engaging in emotional tug-of-war, they choose composure over chaos. This response often signals a relationship dynamic rooted in mutual trust and emotional safety. It also indicates that validation comes from within the relationship, not from external perceptions. Choosing calm over conflict is a quiet but powerful assertion of strength and self-assurance.
