2 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Actor Darshan Jariwala has responded to claims made by his estranged wife and actor Apara Mehta, who alleged that he once told her he had “fallen out of love” and called her the “ugliest woman” he had ever seen.
Jariwala has denied the account, describing it as a case of “false memory” and saying that the incident, as narrated by Mehta, did not happen. The couple have been living separately for 23 years but have not legally divorced.
Darshan Denies Calling Apara ‘Ugliest Woman’
Responding to Mehta’s account, Jariwala said memories of past events can change over time and suggested that her recollection was inaccurate.
He maintained that he would not have made such a remark about a woman, arguing that he would focus more on a person’s character than physical appearance.
‘She Can Play the Victim Card’
Jariwala also accused Mehta of portraying herself as a victim.
He said she was free to “play the victim card” but insisted that he knew his own truth. The actor questioned why she had chosen to discuss the alleged incident publicly more than two decades after their separation.
Why Did Darshan and Apara Separate?
According to Jariwala, the breakdown of their marriage was not caused by a single incident.
He said the two gradually grew in different directions, with their priorities, career choices and circumstances changing over the years. He also cited an unsuccessful business venture that affected his financial circumstances.
The Couple Married in 1982
Jariwala and Mehta married in 1982 and have one daughter.
Mehta had previously spoken about their relationship and its unconventional beginnings, including how the couple eloped when they were young before later marrying again with their families’ blessings.
Why They Never Legally Divorced
Jariwala said he had filed for divorce but that the application was rejected after Mehta did not give her consent before the judge.
The two have remained legally married despite living separate lives for more than two decades.
Darshan Says He Left Their Home
Jariwala recalled leaving their home after the relationship broke down and said he gave the house in Santacruz West to Mehta and their daughter.
He claimed that he subsequently went through a financially difficult period, staying with friends before eventually being able to rent a smaller home.
Apara’s Earlier Account
Mehta had described the painful episode during a recent interview, claiming that Jariwala told her he had fallen out of love with her before leaving their home.
She also alleged that he made the hurtful comment about her appearance. Jariwala has now rejected that version of events.
Darshan Says He Has Moved On
Jariwala said he is now “very happy” with his life and has moved on from the relationship.
He has been living with interior designer and architect Anahita Italia since 2010, according to his recent comments.
Relationship With Daughter Remains Strong
Jariwala also spoke about his relationship with his daughter, saying they remain in regular contact and maintain a good relationship.
He rejected Mehta’s suggestion that she had raised their daughter entirely on her own, saying he has remained aware of developments in his daughter’s life.
A Public Dispute After 23 Years
The latest exchange has brought renewed attention to a marriage that ended in separation more than two decades ago.
While Mehta’s account describes a deeply hurtful personal experience, Jariwala disputes the central allegations and says his recollection of the events is entirely different.