Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya were once considered Tollywood's most admired couple. The duo, who initially bonded during the making of Ye Maaya Chesave, later shared the screen together in several films and won fans with their on-screen chemistry. Their love story took a significant turn when they married in 2017, celebrating their union with combined Hindu and Christian ceremonies.
Unfortunately, their romance hit turbulent waters, leading to their divorce in 2021, which left many fans heartbroken. Much speculation surrounded the reasons for their split, including family disapproval of Samantha's bold image and differing perspectives on starting a family.
During an appearance on Feet Up With The Stars (Telugu) in 2019, Samantha humorously shared insights about her relationship with Chaitanya. When asked what had changed post-marriage, she quipped, "The pillow is the first wife to Chaitanya. Even if I have to kiss, the pillow is always between us. And now it's enough; I guess I have said a lot of things." Her candid remarks added color to the public's perception of their dynamic and highlighted the light-hearted struggles within their relationship.
Since their split, the couple's journeys have taken different paths. Naga Chaitanya recently celebrated his marriage to actress Sobhita Dhulipala, bringing love back to the forefront of his life. The couple's wedding took place on December 4, 2024, at Annapurna Studios in Hyderabad, embracing their cultural heritage and showcasing their love. Chaitanya expressed great affection for this new chapter, referring to Sobhita as a "Vizag ammayi" during promotional events for his film Thandel, set to release on February 7.
Meanwhile, Samantha's life has also undergone significant changes following their divorce. Diagnosed with myositis, an autoimmune disease, soon after their separation, she took time off acting to focus on her health. Now, after nearly three years, she is back on screen with versatile roles, having recently appeared in the action series Citadel: Honey Bunny alongside Varun Dhawan. She has also lined up projects like Rakht Brahmand and Bangaram, showcasing her resilience and dedication to her craft.
Chaitanya, too, is gearing up for his next cinematic venture. His previous outing, the web series Dhootha, received mixed reviews. The series, praised for its production quality, helps mark the growing interest and investment in Telugu web series. Critics noted, "Despite occasional predictability, Dhootha sustains viewer interest through its dark and intense plot." The reviewer commended the series for its unique premise and promising direction for future productions.
Both actors have navigated their personal struggles and professional challenges with grace. The narrative surrounding their relationship adds to the intrigue of celebrity culture and how love shapes the lives of public figures. Over the years, as Chaitanya and Samantha have moved onto new relationships and projects, their past partnership remains part of their identities, enriching their individual journeys.