In 2004, Dhanush and Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s marriage united two iconic families in Tamil cinema. Dhanush, a rising star, and Aishwarya, the daughter of superstar Rajinikanth, were the epitome of a power couple. Over the years, they balanced demanding careers and family life, raising two sons, Yatra and Linga. However, beneath the facade of marital bliss, their relationship was riddled with rumors, controversies, and alleged scandals that ultimately led to their separation in 2022.
A Web of Controversies Surrounding Dhanush
The Suchi Leaks Scandal
In 2017, the Tamil film industry was rocked by the Suchi Leaks controversy when singer and RJ Suchitra’s Twitter account shared explicit photos and videos allegedly involving several South Indian celebrities, including Dhanush. These leaks hinted at extramarital affairs, linking Dhanush to several actresses. Though Suchitra later claimed her account had been hacked, the damage was done, and the scandal reportedly caused friction in Dhanush and Aishwarya’s marriage.
Rumored Role in High-Profile Divorces
Over the years, Dhanush has been accused of being the alleged cause behind several high-profile divorces in Kollywood, though these rumors remain unsubstantiated.
- Amala Paul: Following her divorce from director A.L. Vijay, rumors emerged that Amala Paul’s growing closeness with Dhanush during the filming of Velaiyilla Pattathari was a contributing factor. Both parties denied the allegations, but the whispers persisted.
- Vijay Yesudas: Speculation arose that Dhanush was involved in Vijay Yesudas’s marital issues, though no concrete evidence ever surfaced.
- Dhivyadharshini (DD): Popular TV host DD’s separation from her husband sparked rumors of a possible connection with Dhanush. Again, neither party addressed these claims, but the gossip added fuel to the media fire.
- G.V. Prakash Kumar: Reports suggested that Dhanush’s alleged interference in G.V. Prakash Kumar’s personal life caused strains in the composer’s marriage.
- Jayam Ravi: Dhanush was even linked to marital discord involving actor Jayam Ravi, though these claims were dismissed as baseless by insiders.
- A.R. Rahman: The latest rumor to emerge is that Dhanush’s involvement in a professional project led to tensions in A.R. Rahman’s personal life, contributing to speculation about the music maestro’s marital troubles.
While these rumors remain largely speculative, the recurring accusations have perpetuated an image of Dhanush as a controversial figure in Kollywood, overshadowing his professional achievements.
Aishwarya’s Controversies
Past Relationship with Silambarasan (Simbu)
Before marrying Dhanush, Aishwarya was rumored to have been in a serious romantic relationship with actor Silambarasan (Simbu). Despite their breakup, industry insiders speculated that lingering tensions from this past relationship may have influenced her marriage to Dhanush. Over the years, gossip about unresolved issues between Dhanush and Simbu added a layer of complexity to their marital dynamics.
Closeness with Selvaraghavan
Aishwarya’s close bond with Dhanush’s brother, director Selvaraghavan, also sparked controversy. Speculation arose that her relationship with Selvaraghavan created friction within the family, even being cited as a possible reason for his divorce from actress Sonia Agarwal in 2010. While neither Aishwarya nor Selvaraghavan ever addressed these rumors, the gossip cast a shadow over her relationship with Dhanush.
The Divorce Announcement and Its Fallout
In January 2022, Dhanush and Aishwarya publicly announced their separation, describing it as a mutual decision taken after “18 years of togetherness.” Their statement emphasized respect and co-parenting but left many questions unanswered. Sources close to the couple hinted that years of unresolved differences, fueled by controversies and public scrutiny, had taken a toll on their relationship.
The divorce proceedings, currently ongoing, are being closely watched by the media and fans. Both Dhanush and Aishwarya have remained firm in their decision to part ways, with the Family Welfare Court expected to finalize the divorce on November 27, 2024.
Public and Industry Reactions
The couple’s separation has divided fans and the Tamil film industry. While some sympathized with the pressures of maintaining a high-profile marriage, others blamed the numerous controversies surrounding them for the split. Many criticized the relentless media scrutiny, arguing that such rumors can irreparably damage personal relationships.
A Legacy of Success and Scandal
Despite their separation and the controversies that engulfed their marriage, Dhanush and Aishwarya remain significant figures in Tamil cinema. Dhanush’s career continues to flourish internationally, while Aishwarya has established herself as a filmmaker and creative force.
Their story, marked by love, fame, and a barrage of rumors, highlights the challenges faced by celebrity couples living under constant public scrutiny. From Suchi Leaks to allegations of involvement in high-profile divorces, their marriage became a lightning rod for controversy. As they part ways, Dhanush and Aishwarya’s journey serves as both a cautionary tale and a reflection of the immense pressures that come with life in the spotlight.