The divorce case involving actor-politician and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister (CM), C Joseph Vijay and his wife Sangeetha Sornalingam has been adjourned till August 7, 2026 on Monday after a court hearing failed to yield any progress and concluded without a settlement.
The matter is under the adjudication of the Chengalpattu Mahila Court, and both parties arrived in person before the court following directives issued earlier, requiring their physical presence. The latest development has intensified the interest of the people in the high-profile case, which pertains to one of Tamil cinema’s most celebrated stars.
Sangeetha (Left) and Vijay (Right)
Legal observers had predicted a breakthrough
As per reports, both Vijay and Sangeetha attended the hearing in person after the court declined separate requests seeking permission to appear virtually. Legal observers were of the view that a breakthrough or a settlement discussion was likely during the proceedings, but it concluded without any resolution.
The court will next hear the matter on August 7, 2026. Notably, the case has drawn eyeballs due to Vijay’s stature in Kollywood (Tamil film industry) and his political elevation as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
Sangeetha maintains allegations of infidelity, mental cruelty against Vijay
Sangeetha’s petition reportedly seeks the dissolution of her marriage with Vijay under provisions of the Special Marriage Act. Among the claims mentioned in the petition are allegations of adultery, emotional neglect and mental cruelty against Vijay. According to reports, Sangeetha alleged that she learnt of Vijay’s affair with another actress. The court documents did not name the person concerned.
A pic when the couple was happily married
She further claimed in the petition that Vijay repeatedly assured her of aborting the relationship, but failed to keep his word. When the assurances failed to materialise, they caused emotional distress and embarrassment to both Sangeetha and the couple’s children, she alleged in the petition. Notably, the said allegations form part of the divorce petition.
Why is reconciliation not possible between the duo?
In the petition, Sangeetha also detailed a gradual deterioration of her marriage, alleging a lack of communication and emotional disconnect between the couple.
Moreover, Sangeetha claimed that Vijay’s professional and political commitments increasingly eclipsed family life, leaving her feeling isolated. The petition also referenced financial limitations and restrictions affecting her day-to-day life.
Owing to the aforementioned circumstances, reconciliation is no longer being considered possible between the couple.
Vijay after joining politics (Left)
A marriage spanning more than two decades
Vijay and Sangeetha married in 1999 after the latter met the former through her admiration for his work in films. Over the years, they became one of the most recognisable couples in the South Indian film industry.
The couple has two children; a son named Jason Sanjay and a daughter named Divya Sasha.