Singer Kumar Sanu's ex-wife, Rita Bhattacharya, has broken her silence regarding the ₹50-crore defamation lawsuit filed against her by the veteran playback singer. In a recent emotional appeal, Rita expressed her shock at the astronomical damages sought and urged her former husband to stop "harassing" their family.
The Controversy: Why Did Kumar Sanu Sue?
The legal battle began when Kumar Sanu moved the Bombay High Court earlier this month. The singer alleges that Rita Bhattacharya breached the 2001 divorce agreement, which legally prohibited both parties from making public allegations against each other.
The Specific Allegations:
- Mistreatment Claims: In recent interviews (September 2025), Rita alleged that Sanu mistreated her during her pregnancy, including claims that he starved her, locked her in the kitchen, and denied medical access.
- Financial & Reputational Loss: Sanu's legal team, led by advocate Sana Raees Khan, claims these "malicious lies" have caused a tangible decline in professional inquiries and damaged his 40-year legacy.
- Damages Sought: While early reports suggested ₹30 lakh, Rita confirmed the legal notice she received demands ₹50 crore in damages.
Rita Bhattacharya’s Response: "I am Shocked"
Speaking to the media, the 63-year-old Rita expressed her disappointment and disbelief at being taken to court again after three decades of separation.
"I’m shocked. He is filing a case against the mother of his three grown-up sons. I don't know how Sanu is dreaming that I have so much money. It is really sad."
Key Points from Her Statement:
- Communication Gap: Rita claimed she and her sons (Zico, Jesse, and Jaan) have been blocked by the singer for years and have no way to resolve issues privately.
- Family Impact: She highlighted that the legal drama erupted just as her son was getting married, leading to embarrassing questions from the in-laws.
- A Plea for Peace: She made a direct appeal to the singer: "I will request Sanu with folded hands — just try to be a good human being and be the father of my three children. If you can’t love us, at least don’t disturb us and don’t harass us anymore."
What’s Next?
The Bombay High Court is expected to hear the matter on December 24, 2025, before a bench headed by Justice Milind Jadhav.
| Party | Legal Stand |
| Kumar Sanu | Seeks permanent injunction, removal of interviews, and ₹50 crore for breach of contract. |
| Rita Bhattacharya | Claims she was merely responding to public commentary and is considering a counter-case. |
The case has reignited public debate over celebrity privacy and the legal binding of decades-old divorce settlements in the age of social media.
