It’s Over! Lataa Saberwal & Sanjeev Seth Part Ways After 16 Years | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai

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Television’s Beloved Duo Lata Sabharwal and Sanjeev Seth Announce Amicable Divorce After 15 Years of Marriage

Subheading: The Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai co-stars, whose on-screen love story blossomed into real-life marriage in 2010, have released a joint statement asking for privacy as they move forward separately.

In a surprise announcement that has sent ripples through the Indian television industry and their legion of fans, actress Lata Sabharwal and actor Sanjeev Seth — best known for portraying a happily married couple on the long-running Star Plus serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai — confirmed they have legally ended their marriage after fifteen years together.

Taking to her Instagram account on Monday morning, Lata posted a heartfelt message that read, in part: “After much contemplation and a long period of silence, I wish to share that I am divorced from my husband, Mr. Sanjeev Seth. I am grateful to him for our beloved son Arav and for the wonderful years we shared. I request everyone to respect our family’s peace and refrain from any questions or calls regarding this personal matter.”

While neither party cited specific reasons for their separation, sources close to the family emphasize that the decision was mutual, amicable, and motivated by a desire to protect their twelve-year-old son’s well-being. Both Lata and Sanjeev have asked the media and their fans to honor their privacy during this transition.

Background: From On-Screen Chemistry to Real-Life Romance
Lata Sabharwal and Sanjeev Seth first met in 2006, when Sanjeev joined the popular soap Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai as Abhinav, and Lata was cast as his on-screen wife, Riddhima. Their characters’ endearing relationship quickly resonated with viewers, and behind the scenes, Sanjeev found himself drawn to Lata’s warmth and kindness.

In interviews given over the years, Sanjeev has recalled how he was immediately impressed by Lata’s sincerity and affectionate nature. The two struck up a friendship during an outdoor shoot in Udaipur: “We started talking about everything under the sun, from our favorite foods to childhood memories,” Sanjeev once told TV magazine Star Talk. “Before long, I realized I didn’t just like her as a co-star — I cared for her deeply.”

Despite the blossoming romance, Sanjeev proceeded with caution. He was then in his mid-thirties and already married with two children from his first marriage to fellow actress Reshma Tipnis. Reshma and Sanjeev’s union in 1996 had been headline-worthy — she was just twenty, he was thirty-two — but after eleven years, the couple had amicably divorced in 2007, citing irreconcilable differences.

In an act that surprised many, Sanjeev approached his former wife and their two children before proposing to Lata, seeking their blessing so that all family members would feel included. “That gesture touched Lata deeply,” Sanjeev said. “She knew I only wanted to do right by everyone, so there would be no resentment or heartache when we took this next step.”

On January 15, 2010, Lata and Sanjeev wed in a private ceremony attended by close friends, co-stars, and family. Their union was celebrated by the Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai production team, who threw an elaborate reception complete with live music, flower garlands, and a personalized cake emblazoned with the couple’s initials.

In March 2013, the couple welcomed their only child together, baby Arav. Photos of the doting parents cradling their newborn quickly circulated online, and Arav grew into a beloved fixture on social media platforms. Every year, Lata would share birthday tributes to her “little sunshine,” and Sanjeev frequently posted pictures of family dinners, beach outings, and festive celebrations.

The Instagram Announcement

Lata’s Instagram post on Monday carried both relief and melancholy. Accompanying her written statement was a simple black-and-white family photograph taken when Arav was a toddler — it showed the three of them laughing and holding hands on a sunlit verandah. In her caption, Lata wrote:

“Sometimes love means letting go so others can grow. With immense gratitude for the years of love and support, I announce that Sanjeev and I have parted ways. I will always cherish the memories we made and am deeply thankful for our son, Arav. Please respect our decision and allow us the dignity and privacy we need as we embark on separate journeys.”

Sanjeev Seth reposted Lata’s message on his own Instagram story, adding, “I stand by Lata’s request and appreciate the outpouring of support. Our priority remains our son’s happiness. Thank you for understanding.”

Public and Industry Reactions
Within hours, the news became one of the top trending topics on social media. Fans expressed shock and sadness, many reminiscing about their favorite on-screen moments of the couple’s characters, Abhinav and Riddhima. The hashtag #LataAndSanjeev soon began circulating on Twitter alongside messages of encouragement: “You two gave us so much joy; sending you strength during this time,” wrote @TVFanatic. “Your privacy is important — please know we respect you,” posted @SoapOperaLover.

Prominent figures from the television fraternity offered their condolences. Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai producer Rajan Shahi commented, “Lata and Sanjeev have been pillars of our show for over a decade. While personal journeys change, their contributions remain invaluable. We wish them both the very best.” Co-stars Hrishikesh Pandey and Rupal Singh, who play members of the Goenka family on the series, also sent private messages to the couple, emphasizing support and solidarity.

Navigating Divorce in the Public Eye
Divorce among public figures inevitably ignites speculation. In Lata and Sanjeev’s case, the couple has deliberately steered clear of interviews, refusing to discuss personal details or assign blame. Legal experts note that this measured approach is often the healthiest for high-profile separations, as media scrutiny can exacerbate tension and negatively affect any children involved.

Family therapist Dr. Meera Malhotra observes: “When celebrity divorces become public spectacles, families suffer twice — first from the separation itself, and then from intense media scrutiny. By issuing a joint statement and requesting privacy, Lata and Sanjeev are attempting to protect their son from undue stress.”

Inside Sources Speak
A source close to the couple, who spoke on condition of anonymity, suggests that the decision to divorce was based on “growing apart” rather than any dramatic public scandal. “They tried counseling and gave it their best shot,” the insider says. “But over the last few years, schedules, shifting priorities, and personal growth led them down different paths. They love Arav deeply and remain devoted co-parents.”

Divorce filings in the Family Court of Mumbai confirm that the separation was finalized last week. The court records list “irreconcilable differences” as the sole cause, and both parties retained a private mediator to structure a custody and visitation agreement. Under the terms, Lata has primary custody of Arav, while Sanjeev will spend alternate weekends and designated holidays with their son.

What This Means for Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
Industry analysts are watching closely to see if the separation will affect the couple’s on-screen roles. Both actors are under contract through 2026, and showrunner Rajan Shahi has issued an assurance: “Our narrative focuses on the Goenka family, and while Lata and Sanjeev’s real lives have changed, their commitment to the show remains unwavering. We will continue to work together professionally with the same zeal.”

Lata’s current storyline sees Riddhima navigating marital strife of her own, a twist that viewers now watch through the prism of real-life events. Some critics fear that the parallel between fiction and reality might become unsettling; others see it as a testament to both actors’ strengths that they can separate art from life so effectively.

Looking Ahead: New Beginnings and Continued Collaboration
As Lata and Sanjeev embark on individual chapters, both confirmed their intention to co-parent harmoniously. Lata’s social media feed is expected to pivot back to work announcements, fashion shoots, and occasional family glimpses, while Sanjeev is rumored to be in talks for a new web series role. Neither has made public statements about future relationships, underscoring their focus on healing and parenting.

Entertainment lawyer Vikram Kapoor believes that this high-profile yet discreet divorce may set a positive precedent: “Celebrities often let their personal upheavals dominate headlines for months. By keeping details private, Lata and Sanjeev preserve their dignity and protect their child from the glare of the spotlight. It’s a model more stars might follow.”

Fans, too, seem eager to support the couple’s well-being rather than pry into their private lives. Fan clubs on Instagram have already started sharing positive messages under the banners #RespectTheirPrivacy and #SendingLoveToArav, reiterating that while breakups are painful, respect and understanding can help all involved heal.

Conclusion
The end of Lata Sabharwal and Sanjeev Seth’s marriage marks the closing of a significant chapter in Indian television history: two performers whose on-screen chemistry blossomed into a real-life family and endured for fifteen years. Though fans and colleagues mourn the separation, the couple’s dignified announcement and request for privacy reflect a mature approach to an inherently painful process.

As both actors step forward individually, they carry with them the goodwill of an audience that has watched them laugh, cry, and celebrate life’s milestones. The dissolution of their marriage does not erase the joy they brought to millions; rather, it highlights their humanity and reinforces the importance of mutual respect, even in parting.

In their joint statement, Lata and Sanjeev concluded with a message they hope resonates beyond fanfare: “We remain grateful for the love we’ve shared and optimistic for the paths ahead. Thank you for your understanding and respect as we prioritize our family’s peace and privacy.”

For fans of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, the story continues — on screen with its beloved characters, and off screen in the courage Lata and Sanjeev demonstrate in honoring love’s evolution, however difficult the transition may be.

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