The family court of Chennai granted a formal end to Dhanush and Aishwarya Rajinikanth’s 20-year marriage through divorce. This couple had announced their separation back in January 2022 and applied for a mutual consent divorce based on irreconcilable differences. Since they have been separated for the past 18 months, the plea is filed under Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act, which provides for dissolution through mutual agreement.
The Journey and Separation
Dhanush, the popular Tamil actor, and Aishwarya, Rajinikanth’s elder daughter, married in 2004. It was considered the marriage of two cinematic kings and queens celebrated far and wide in South India. With time, they gave each other all possible encouragement to continue their creative professions. The couple helped Aishwarya produce movies and gave Dhanush the full opportunity to develop his versatile acting career which earned him wide acclaim.
In 2022, the couple announced their decision to part ways, stating, “We have decided to take time apart to understand ourselves as individuals for the betterment of our families.” Despite concerted efforts by family members, including Rajinikanth, to mediate and reconcile their differences, the couple remained steadfast in their decision to separate.
Legal Proceedings
The final hearing was held at the Madras High Court on November 21, 2024. Both sides expressed their desire to let go of the marriage amicably. The family court considered this and pronounced the final decree on November 27th, allowing them to proceed with their divorce. In fact, reports suggest that the separation was done without any ruckus, both Dhanush and Aishwarya being keen on a dignified end to their marital relationship.
Moving Ahead
Dhanush and Aishwarya have chosen to focus on their individual lives post-divorce. While Dhanush continues to dominate the film industry with an impressive lineup of projects, Aishwarya remains active in her filmmaking career. Both have requested privacy during this transitional phase.
This marks the end of one of the most beautiful marriages in Tamil cinema. As fans and well-wishers reflect on their journey together, the couple’s respectful handling of their separation is a great example of maturity and mutual understanding.