A highly-anticipated legal decision created a shock wave around South India, including, but not limited to, the film industry and politics. According to a report of Chengalpattu Family Court, Sangeetha Sornalingam, the wife of Tamil superstar and TVK chief Thalapathy Vijay, filed a divorce process on 27 February 2026.
The couple's relationship has been controversial of late as allegations of infidelity and mental cruelty come under scrutiny after 27 years of marriage. Who is Sangeetha Sornalingam? Sri Lankan Tamil and British born Sangeetha Sornalingam is originally from Sri Lanka. She is the daughter of an eminent Sri Lankan Tamil industrialist, who moved to London. Before marrying, Sangeetha was a British citizen and had her life separate from the glitz and glamour of the Indian film industry.
The Fan-to-Partner Love Story
Their relationship started as a classic star meets fan story. After the breakthrough achievement of Vijay’s 1996 film Poove Unakkaga, Sangeetha sailed from London to Chennai, where she specifically accompanied the actor to congratulate him. Her sincerity and warmth impressed Vijay, who invited her to his place to meet his parents. The couple's connection deepened early on and after obtaining the blessing from them both, they were married on 25 August 1999.
They honored both their backgrounds with a traditional Hindu ceremony and a Christian wedding, followed by a grand reception in Chennai. Divorce Application: Major Complaints Sangeetha filed her petition under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, and it was directed that the marital relationship be terminated on the grounds of adultery, psychological cruelty and emotional neglect.
Discovery of the Love Affair
The petition contends that Sangeetha became aware of Vijay’s extramarital relationship with a prominent actress in April 2021. Distrust (Trust betrayed): Sangeetha alleges that despite Vijay's assurances that the relationship would end, the relationship reportedly continued, resulting in "great psychological suffering and public disgrace."
Separation: The couple are said to have been living apart for close to 2 years. The petition also has “constructive desertion” underlined, indicating years of psychological detachment and animosity. The court is reportedly set to issue a summons for Vijay to appear before it in person on 20th April 2026.
Life Apart From the Spotlight For almost three decades Sangeetha was always a source of comfort to Vijay and she was of a relatively low profile. She seldom participated in film shows and rallies; her decision led to rumours of divorce as early as 2023. Jason Sanjay: Their son (he recently made headlines for his interest in film direction.) Divya Saasha: Their daughter featured briefly in the movies along with her father.
Political and Professional Ramifications
This issue affects Vijay's life on multiple levels. As he has just formed his political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), and is positioning themselves for upcoming Tamil Nadu assembly elections, the public finding of dis-tension between the family may affect his reputation.
And on top of that, the highly anticipated film Jana Nayagan is facing its own set of challenges, including the standstill of the censor board. As one of India’s highest paid actors, legal battles over alimony and residence rights (as Sangeetha’s petition requested) are likely to be a major focus in the months ahead.
