The marriage of Tamil superstar and politician Vijay (Joseph Vijay Chandrasekar) and his wife, Sangeetha Sornalingam, is reportedly headed for an official end after 27 years. Sangeetha has initiated legal proceedings, filing for divorce and bringing forth serious allegations against the actor-turned-politician, including infidelity and persistent mental cruelty. This development has sent ripples through the entertainment and political spheres, marking a significant personal turning point for one of Tamil Nadu's most prominent figures.
Sangeetha Files for Divorce, Alleges Affair and Cruelty
In a move that has captured widespread media attention, Sangeetha Sornalingam, wife of actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay, has formally petitioned a family court in Chengalpattu District, seeking a dissolution of their nearly three-decade-long marriage. The petition details a distressing account of marital breakdown, citing specific grounds for divorce under the Special Marriage Act, 1954.
At the heart of Sangeetha's plea are grave accusations of an extramarital affair. According to the petition, Sangeetha, 48, discovered in 2021 that Vijay, 51, was involved in an adulterous relationship with a fellow female actor. The document further claims that despite assurances from Vijay that the relationship would cease, it allegedly continued unabated and without any apparent remorse. This ongoing conduct, compounded by public appearances and social media activity involving the alleged third party, has reportedly caused Sangeetha immense humiliation and suffering.
Beyond the allegations of infidelity, the petition also outlines a pattern of what Sangeetha describes as persistent mental cruelty, neglect, and desertion. These claims paint a picture of a marriage that has, for some time, been under severe strain. Sangeetha alleges that Vijay gradually excluded her from both his social and professional life. A particularly damaging aspect mentioned in the petition refers to Vijay’s continued travel abroad and attendance at public events with the alleged actress. These outings were reportedly documented and shared on social media by the actress, posts which Vijay neither denied nor objected to, thereby, as the petition suggests, tacitly endorsing them. Such public displays are said to have caused repeated humiliation not only to Sangeetha but also to their children, Jason Sanjay and Divya Shasha.
Moreover, the legal filing touches upon what Sangeetha perceives as financial restrictions and the curtailment of her free movement, alongside the withdrawal of facilities she previously enjoyed. These acts, coupled with Vijay’s "continued adulterous conduct and repeated social media controversies" in 2024, are cited as the cause of severe mental torture, leading her to conclude that their marriage has effectively ceased to exist, surviving only on paper and offering her nothing but "mental agony, indignity, humiliation and suffering." These specific allegations form the backbone of Sangeetha's Petition: Mental Cruelty & Infidelity in Vijay Divorce.
A Public Figure's Private Battle: The Grounds for Divorce
The legal framework for this high-profile separation is the Special Marriage Act, 1954, a secular law in India that allows for civil marriages and divorces irrespective of the parties' religion. Sangeetha's petition specifically invokes Section 27(1)(a) and 27(1)(d) of this Act, which provide grounds for divorce based on:
- Adultery: This refers to voluntary sexual intercourse by a married person with someone other than their spouse. In legal terms, proof of adultery can be challenging, often relying on circumstantial evidence rather than direct proof. Sangeetha's petition attempts to establish this through Vijay's alleged continued relationship and public endorsements.
- Cruelty: This is a broader term encompassing both physical and mental cruelty. Mental cruelty can include a wide range of behaviors that cause severe emotional distress, such as constant humiliation, neglect, false accusations, or, as alleged here, public acts that undermine the spouse's dignity and standing. The petition's details about exclusion, public outings with another woman, and financial restrictions fall under this purview.
For a public figure like Vijay, who has a massive following and a burgeoning political career as the head of the TVK, these allegations carry significant weight, both personally and professionally. The proceedings, which Sangeetha has requested to be conducted 'in camera' (privately, away from public view), underscore the sensitive nature of the issues at hand, particularly when children are involved.
The couple's journey began on August 25, 1999, with a grand wedding celebrating both Hindu and Christian traditions. Sangeetha, the daughter of a prominent Tamil industrialist, was reportedly a devoted fan of Vijay before their marriage. Their union was often seen as a bedrock of stability in the often-turbulent world of cinema. The potential end of TVK Chief Vijay's 27-Year Marriage Ends Amidst Affair Claims highlights the profound challenges even seemingly strong partnerships can face.
The Impact of Celebrity Divorces and Public Scrutiny
Divorces, especially those involving public figures like Vijay, are often played out under intense media scrutiny, adding layers of complexity and emotional strain to an already difficult process. The allegations made public in Sangeetha's divorce petition underscore several critical aspects:
- Emotional Toll: Regardless of celebrity status, divorce is emotionally devastating. When infidelity and cruelty are alleged, the psychological impact on all parties, especially the children, can be profound and long-lasting.
- Reputation and Career: For a star with political aspirations, such personal allegations can significantly impact public perception and future career trajectory. Managing public narrative becomes a critical, yet delicate, task during such times.
- Privacy vs. Public Interest: While Sangeetha has requested 'in camera' proceedings, the initial filing details have already become public knowledge. This tension between an individual's right to privacy and the public's interest in prominent figures is a constant challenge.
- The Role of Social Media: The petition explicitly highlights the role of social media posts in causing humiliation. This reflects the modern reality where personal lives, even of those not seeking public attention, are increasingly exposed and interpreted online.
For individuals facing similar marital challenges, whether in the public eye or not, it's crucial to remember that legal processes are designed to offer resolution, but emotional healing often requires additional support. Seeking professional counseling, prioritizing children's well-being, and understanding one's legal rights are vital steps.
Conclusion: An Unfolding Legal Chapter for Vijay and Sangeetha
As the legal proceedings commence at the District Court, the outcome of Sangeetha's petition for Vijay wife divorce remains to be determined. The case, likely to be heard on April 10, will delve into the specific details of the allegations of infidelity and cruelty, as outlined under the Special Marriage Act. This developing story highlights the personal challenges faced by even the most celebrated individuals and serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in marital relationships, particularly when confronted with serious allegations and public scrutiny.