Kumar Sanu Faces Court Battle With Ex-Wife

The acrimonious dispute between Bollywood playback singer Kumar Sanu and his former wife, Rita Bhattacharya, has escalated into a high-profile legal battle, centring on a defamation lawsuit filed by the singer. Sanu is seeking ₹50 crore in damages, a figure Bhattacharya has described as both “unfortunate” and “baffling,” particularly given her financial situation.

In a recent interview, Rita Bhattacharya spoke openly about her perspective on the case, alleging that she endured severe mistreatment during her pregnancy. She claimed that Sanu withheld basic necessities, including food, and subjected her to emotional abuse. Additionally, she publicly accused him of maintaining multiple extramarital relationships, a revelation that has heightened tensions surrounding the legal proceedings.

Following these allegations, Kumar Sanu approached the Bombay High Court to protect his reputation. The defamation suit, filed for ₹50 crore, was heard on 17 December. While earlier reports suggested a potential settlement of ₹30 lakh, Bhattacharya emphasised that the legal notice specifies the far higher claim. She expressed astonishment at the sum demanded, stating: “I cannot understand how he thought I have access to such an amount. It is truly astonishing. Does he forget that he is filing this case against the mother of his three children?”

Rita also recounted the difficulties she faced during her pregnancy, asserting that Sanu’s alleged behaviour and the public revelation of his extramarital affairs caused her immense emotional distress. “I was so young at the time that it felt as if the ground had disappeared beneath me. I was confined to the kitchen and denied even minimal access to medical care or nutrition for the child,” she said.

The case has drawn widespread media attention, highlighting both the personal struggles involved and the broader implications for reputational and legal considerations in the Indian entertainment industry. Legal analysts note that the proceedings underscore complex issues around domestic discord, public image, and the legal recourse available in celebrity defamation cases.

Key Details of the Defamation Case:

The case remains ongoing, with further hearings expected to examine the validity of the claims, the extent of alleged damages, and the evidentiary basis for both parties’ arguments. Observers anticipate that the outcome may have far-reaching implications for the management of personal disputes within India’s celebrity circles.