Veteran Bollywood playback singer Kumar Sanu has initiated legal proceedings against his ex-wife Rita Bhattacharya following serious allegations she made during a recent interview. Rita accused Sanu and his family of neglect and emotional abuse during her third pregnancy, including claims of being denied food, milk, and medical care for their children.
In response, Sanu’s lawyer, Sana Raees Khan, issued a legal notice and released a strong statement defending the singer’s reputation. “For over 40 years, Mr. Kumar Sanu has poured his soul into music, giving joy to millions and earning love and respect across the world. Hurtful lies may create noise for a moment, but they can never erase the legacy of an artist who has given a lifetime of music and memories to generations,” the statement read.
Khan further emphasized that defamatory remarks would be met with strict legal consequences. “We will ensure that malicious attempts to defame him are met with the full force of the law to protect his dignity, legacy, and family honour. No one has the right to malign a father’s name or trade a family’s respect for cheap sensationalism.”
In her interview with Siddharth Kannan, Rita recounted her alleged struggles while raising two sons and being pregnant with a third amid divorce proceedings. She claimed Sanu denied the children basic necessities, including milk and medical treatment. “Even the milkman and doctor helped me quietly,” she said. Rita also recalled the 2005 Mumbai floods, saying Sanu showed no concern when their sons Zico and Jaan went missing.
Kumar Sanu and Rita married in 1980 and divorced in 1994. During their marriage, Sanu was linked to actress Kunickaa Sadanand. He later married Saloni Bhattacharya in 2001 and has two daughters with her.