Actress Sonali Bendre has broken her silence on viral social media rumours suggesting a personal connection with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray. Addressing the speculation in a recent interview, the actress expressed disappointment over the “baseless and unfortunate” gossip.
“I was not even aware of such talk until now. I just learned that many netizens are discussing it online. Honestly, it’s upsetting,” said Sonali. “There has been a bond between our families for many years. Raj’s wife Sharmila and her mother are close friends with my aunt. That’s how the connection began in our childhood, and it continues to this day.”
During the same interview, Sonali was asked if she has any political aspirations. She firmly denied such intentions, stating, “I’ve never thought about entering politics. That space requires the strength to accept both praise and criticism, and I don’t believe I have that courage. Moreover, I don’t have a deep understanding of politics.”
The rumours resurfaced after a recent public event in Mumbai, where Sonali and Raj Thackeray were seen engaging in a lighthearted conversation. The video, which quickly went viral, prompted online speculation about a personal relationship. The duo had also previously appeared together in 1996 when they were among those who welcomed pop icon Michael Jackson during his India visit.
Sonali’s comments put to rest the online chatter, reaffirming the connection as nothing more than a decades-old family friendship.