Padma Lakshmi, the longtime host and producer of the hit cooking show Top Chef, has recently announced her departure from the popular series ahead of its 21st season. This news has sparked interest in the personal life of the multi-talented TV star, model, and author, particularly her relationship with acclaimed author Salman Rushdie. As Lakshmi reflects on her time with Top Chef, let’s take a look back at the timeline of her relationship with Rushdie, which has been filled with twists and turns.

Padma Lakshmi and Salman Rushdie first crossed paths in 1999 at a party in New York City. At the time, Rushdie was already a renowned writer, while Lakshmi was making her mark in the modeling industry. The couple quickly hit it off and embarked on a whirlwind romance. In 2004, they tied the knot in a private ceremony in New York.

However, their relationship faced significant challenges. The most notable was Rushdie’s controversial novel The Satanic Verses, which resulted in a fatwa, a religious edict calling for his execution. The couple faced intense scrutiny and threats, which put a strain on their marriage. In 2007, after three years of marriage, Lakshmi and Rushdie announced their separation, citing their demanding careers and personal differences as the reasons behind their decision.

Also read | Who is Padma Lakshmi?

Despite their separation, Lakshmi and Rushdie remained connected and continued to support each other. In her memoir, Love, Loss, and What We Ate, Lakshmi described Rushdie as an important figure in her life and acknowledged the impact he had on her personal and professional growth. Rushdie, too, spoke highly of Lakshmi, expressing his admiration for her resilience and talent.

In the years following their separation, both Lakshmi and Rushdie moved on with their lives. Lakshmi welcomed her daughter, Krishna, in 2010, while Rushdie pursued his writing career and ventured into new relationships. Although their romantic relationship had come to an end, the bond they formed during their time together remained.

As Padma Lakshmi bids farewell to Top Chef, she leaves behind a legacy of culinary excellence and innovation. Her journey in the show was intertwined with her personal growth, including her relationship with Salman Rushdie. While their love story had its ups and downs, it remains a significant chapter in both of their lives, highlighting the complexities of love, fame, and personal sacrifices.

Also read | Salman Rushdie’s wives: From Padma Lakshmi to Clarissa Luard

As Lakshmi begins a new chapter in her career, fans and admirers will undoubtedly continue to follow her journey, eagerly awaiting her next endeavor. And while her relationship with Rushdie may be in the past, their story serves as a reminder that even amidst challenges, love and respect can endure.