Breakups in the digital age often come with blurred lines and public scrutiny. A recent social media interaction between ex-couple Malaika Arora and Arjun Kapoor has caught the internet’s attention.
Malaika shared a Sunday photo dump featuring moments from a slow morning, in a bathrobe and pyjamas, meals through the day, and a carefully arranged dining table. Among the series was a quote by poet Rumi that read, “I don’t love you with my heart and mind, I love you with my soul, in case my mind forgets and my heart stops.” was one of the many celebrities to like the post.
The gesture, though subtle, sparked speculation among netizens. One user wrote, “Arjun is back,” while another added, “Such a loss for you Arjun, go get back to her.” Arjun and Malaika, who dated for nearly six years before parting ways last year, have maintained limited public interaction since their breakup.
During a 2024 event for , Arjun addressed his relationship status, saying, “Abhi single hoon main, relax.” Malaika, in an interview with , responded, “I am a very private person, and there are certain aspects of my life which I don’t want to elaborate on much. I will never choose a public platform to talk about my personal life. So, whatever Arjun has said is entirely his prerogative.”
Not much is known about ’s respective love lives as of yet, but their brief digital interaction has reopened conversations about how people navigate boundaries and emotions post-breakup.
Psychologist Anjali Gursahaney tells , “After a long-term relationship ends, continuing social media interaction can feel harmless but may quietly interfere with emotional healing. These subtle engagements can reopen emotional loops, delay detachment, or send mixed signals, especially if one person is trying to move on more quickly.”
She continues, “Even if the breakup was mutual or amicable, staying digitally ‘present’ in each other’s lives may keep emotional wounds slightly open. While some might view it as maturity or support, in many cases, it’s a silent way of staying connected that can blur emotional boundaries.”
Gursahaney says it’s essential to set clear boundaries to protect one’s mental and emotional space post-breakup. These might include muting or unfollowing each other temporarily, avoiding commenting or reacting to posts, and creating offline distance. If both parties want to remain on good terms, boundaries should be mutual and respectful—not punishment, but protection. “A conscious agreement about what’s okay and what’s not can avoid confusion or false hope. For example, no private messaging unless necessary, no showing up in each other’s social circles without a heads-up, and no deep emotional check-ins during the early stages of healing,” states the expert.
The line between genuine closure and is subtle but critical. Gursahaney explains, “Closure feels calm, it doesn’t seek constant updates or reassurance. If you feel peace when thinking about the person but aren’t emotionally triggered by their actions, it’s likely closure.”
In contrast, if their likes, comments, or absence still cause emotional spikes, hurt, hope, or confusion, it’s probably a lingering attachment. If unsure, it’s wise to take space. Journaling, therapy, or even a temporary social media detox can provide clarity. “The key is honesty with oneself: are you interacting to support them or because a part of you still wants something more?” says Gursahaney.
