TV presenter Anita Rani is embracing her “empowerment” phase. “Life is good,” she shares in an upbeat three-word statement, as we chat to the star after her relaxing holiday in Mauritius. “I’m in a good place, I’m focusing on myself and my own wants. It’s nice to be able to think about the second phase of my life. I’ve been calling it Chapter Two.”
Since announcing her split from husband Bhupi Rehal after 14 years of marriage in September 2023, the 47 year old has been adjusting to her new single status. The couple had a grand three-day Indian wedding in Bradford in 2009, attended by 450 guests.
However, Anita and Bhupi decided to go their separate ways, with rumours suggesting their hectic work schedules played a part in their separation. Anita first spoke about their split in November last year, expressing relief at the news being public. “It’s liberating that people know I’m single now,” she said. “Not everything works out. Things come to their natural conclusion. That is absolutely fine.”
Now, as she embarks on this new chapter, Anita has moved back into her old London flat and is managing a busy work schedule, including hosting Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour and Aldi’s Next Big Thing on Channel 4. “I’m paying attention to my needs,” Anita shares when we ask about her wellbeing. “I don’t really want to delve too much into it all. I’m just ensuring I take time out for the things I love. I’m very conscious that, with the things I aspire to do in life, I’d rather do them now than wait. I sort of live by the motto ‘life is too short’.”
However, like many women, Anita recognises the challenges of prioritising oneself and having a good time. “It’s tough for women because there’s so much on our plates,” she admits. “We’re often the main caregiver, juggling numerous priorities. We can feel guilty at times, but I always remember the saying, ‘You have to put the oxygen mask on yourself before you can help anyone else.'” Amidst all this change, Anita – who kick-started her TV career as a researcher before transitioning to presenting – confesses she’s looking forward to her future with optimism, wanting to “give the best of herself right now”.
(Image: itsanitarani/Instagram)
She adds, “This is a fresh chapter in my life, but I’m eager to turn that page and see what awaits me because the future is thrilling. My philosophy is ‘the best is yet to come’.” As for what’s next, it seems the world is Anita’s oyster given her remarkable career. Anita has been gracing our screens with her vibrant presenting skills, from ITV’s This Morning to BBC One’s Pointless and the beloved Countryfile since 2015. Not only that, but she’s been a powerful voice on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour for over three years.
Her investigative prowess shone through in programmes like War On Plastic With Hugh And Anita, where she teamed up with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, and she delved into the glitz of Bollywood: The World’s Biggest Film Industry. Amidst this whirlwind of projects, Anita penned her memoir, The Right Sort Of Girl, and released her first novel, Baby Does A Runner.
“I’ve worked really hard to get to where I am,” she reflects. “But I also feel like it’s only going to get better, and I’m having so much fun now. Woman’s Hour is an amazing space to be in, and I’ve just made a fantastic documentary about the Brontë sisters for Sky Arts, which is going to come out in the New Year.”
(Image: PA)
Having reached the semi-finals on Strictly in 2015, you’d think Anita might slow down, but she’s still eager to explore new opportunities, saying she’d “love to do it all”. However, she acknowledges the importance of balance, adding, “But I’ve learned you need to be able to say ‘no’ as well,” It seems for Anita, life is a game of choices, and she knows the real power lies in being able to turn things down when necessary. .
Despite her immense success, Anita remains humble and grateful for her opportunities. When asked about the highlight of her career, she pauses thoughtfully before responding, “I’m not sure. That’s such a big question, because every programme I’ve done has led to open doors or to something else. It’s a continuum and one thing has led to another, which has then led to another.”
I don’t really want to talk too much about it all. I’m just making sure I take time out to do things I want to do. I’m very aware that, with the things I want to do in life, I’d quite like to do them now and not wait[quote_full_stop] I kind of live by the mantra of ‘life is too short’.” But the people… the people have been amazing. The people who have given me opportunities, the projects I’ve been able to work on, and the people I’ve been able to meet will always stand out. “Writing my memoir was quite a big deal.
(Image: Getty Images for BAFTA)
“That, and making my episode of Who Do You Think You Are? were moments that I kind of felt a shift in my career, and I feel like I’m at that stage again now. Let’s see what happens next. “I don’t really want to talk too much about it all. I’m just making sure I take time out to do things I want to do. I’m very aware that, with the things I want to do in life, I’d quite like to do them now and not wait. I kind of live by the mantra of ‘life is too short’.”
During her moving episode, Anita delved into the history of her maternal grandfather, revealing that she had never met him but had heard about the terrible tragedy he suffered during India’s Partition. “I feel like it’s important to share something about myself,” she explains, when asked about her experience of sharing her personal life on camera compared to hosting a show. “I hope other people may be able to see themselves in my story, and that it could hopefully inspire other women to do what they want to do in life.”
The former Strictly Come Dancing favourite who’s big on making positive lifestyle choices also said, “I love a beauty ritual,” talking about her self-care regime. “I love, love, love a facial. I also like to read, run and listen to music. But my main issue is sitting still. I don’t think I’ll ever not be curious or ever not want an adventure. I would say my favourite pastime is just pottering around the house, though.”
(Image: BBC/Wall To Wall Media Limited/Stephen Perry)
When it comes to travel, Anita loves nothing more than feeding her adventurous spirit. Reminiscing about her latest escape, she tells us, “Mauritius is a perfect destination,” feeling enthusiastic about her trip to Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Wellness Resort. “I’d never been before and always wanted to go because I’m curious. The place honestly caters for everyone, from families with young children, to adult-only areas, and there was just so much to do. My highlight was swimming with dolphins – I’ll never forget it. “I love going away and I’m a big traveller, but actually allowing myself time to switch off is a new thing. It was heavenly and just what I needed.”
Anita stayed at Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort in Mauritius in the new Adults-Only Wing. Rates start from £388 a night, based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Suite on a Bed & Breakfast basis in the Adult-only wing, which includes £83 resort credit. For further information, visit heritageresorts.mu
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