Mother wanted him to be just like brother Armaan: The real reason why Amaal Mallik cut ties from family

Music composer and singer Amaal Mallik has never shied away from speaking candidly about the personal battles he’s faced behind his public success. In a recent conversation with Siddharth Kannan, he revisited a difficult chapter in his life when he announced his decision to cut ties with his parents. Though the social media post was later deleted and peace was eventually restored within the family, Amaal’s revelations shed light on the emotional toll that comparisons, expectations, and unresolved conflicts can take.

Amaal admitted that persistent comparisons with his younger brother, singer Armaan Mallik, deeply affected him. He described how these comparisons—mainly by his mother—caused growing distance in the family. His mother, who comes from a corporate background, found it difficult to understand his artistic lifestyle, often labeling him as undisciplined. Amaal noted that both parents expected their sons to achieve and live equally, a notion he felt was unrealistic given their differing paths and personalities.

Mental Health, Industry Pressures, and Familial Disconnection
Amaal described a period of severe emotional exhaustion when he reached a breaking point due to the pressures of the entertainment industry and family expectations. He felt his parents didn’t comprehend the stress he was under, which eventually led to heated arguments and emotional distancing. He revealed that he didn’t take calls for days after his social media post, prompting fears among close friends about his well-being.

According to Amaal, even his father—who was once in the music business himself—failed to fully understand the artistic and emotional demands Amaal was facing. His father’s attempts to intervene in professional decisions, such as pushing him to accept projects he had declined, only added to the friction.

Painful Breakup During A Career Milestone
Adding to his personal turmoil, Amaal spoke about a painful breakup that coincided with the time he was working on Kabir Singh. He revealed that his relationship of five years ended abruptly due to religious and professional biases from the girl’s family. Though the woman offered to elope, Amaal declined, stating he couldn't be with someone whose family couldn’t accept his identity or profession.

The heartbreak left a deep impact, especially as it happened alongside feelings of betrayal in the industry—he claimed that due to internal politics, only one of the six songs he composed for Kabir Singh was retained, despite the director’s support.

Money, Mindset, and Disagreements at Home
Apart from emotional challenges, Amaal also touched on disagreements around finances. Though he claimed to be financially responsible, his mother often disapproved of his spending habits. Having grown up in financial hardship herself, she struggled to understand his need for occasional splurges or generous gestures. Amaal maintained that he’s open about his expenses with his father but keeps his mother out of it to avoid conflict.

He shared that his generous nature often led him to forgo large amounts owed by big producers, adding that he is still unpaid to the tune of Rs 25 lakh. Yet, he said he doesn’t chase money, as he believes in karmic balance and that one good performance can recoup such losses.

Though Amaal’s announcement about cutting ties with his family caused a stir, he said the time apart allowed everyone to reflect. After initial shock and concern from friends and family, they eventually reconciled. Amaal also emphasized that his bond with Armaan remains strong, referring to him as his “darling” regardless of the issues they faced due to external influences.