Popular Kannada actor Ajay Rao has found himself in the headlines, with reports claiming that he and his wife Sapna are heading for divorce after 10 years of marriage. For months, whispers of tension between the two have been circulating in industry circles and on social media, though neither Ajay nor Sapna had publicly addressed the rumours. Now, fresh reports suggest that divorce proceedings are underway, and Sapna has also filed a complaint against the actor under the Domestic Violence Act.Sapna files complaint under DV ActAccording to several reports, Sapna has approached a magistrate’s court under Section 12 of the Domestic Violence Act, filing a complaint against Ajay. The couple, who tied the knot on December 18, 2014 in Hosapete after several years of dating, had often been regarded as one of Sandalwood’s most loved pairs. They welcomed their daughter, Cherishma, in 2019.In 2024, the family moved into a new home near Yelahanka, Bengaluru, celebrating the housewarming ceremony with close friends and prominent figures from the Kannada film industry. However, soon after, reports of discord between Ajay and Sapna began to surface.Ajay Rao breaks silenceReacting to the divorce reports, Ajay told Asianet News, “Did my wife go to court? I don’t know about this. I’ll talk to my wife and tell her.” He further addressed his fans and the media via Instagram, posting a heartfelt note: “At this sensitive time, I kindly request everyone to respect the privacy of our family and refrain from sharing or spreading any immediate news regarding personal matters. Every family goes through challenges, and it is our humble request that these remain private. Your understanding, support, and discretion mean a lot to us.”Financial stress behind rift?While the exact reason for the separation remains unclear, Asianet News reported that Ajay and Sapna’s marital issues deepened after the actor ventured into film production. Ajay, who turned producer with his recent release Yuddhakanda, also played the lead role in the film. Unfortunately, the movie failed to perform at the box office, and the financial setback reportedly strained their relationship further.Neither Ajay nor Sapna has officially addressed or reacted to the reports that have been doing the rounds on the internet.Marriage, family and careerAjay Rao, often called “Sandalwood Krishna” for his romantic hero image, made his lead debut in 2003 with Excuse Me, after a small role in Sudeep’s Kichcha. He went on to deliver hits such as Taj Mahal, Prem Kahani, Krishnan Love Story, Krishnan Marriage Story, and Krishna-Leela.Meanwhile, Sapna has dropped Ajay’s name from her social media handles, now going by HN, and the couple has unfollowed each other on Instagram. Despite the turmoil, the two continue to co-parent their six-year-old daughter Cherishma.
