New Delhi: Actor Darshan Jariwala has addressed allegations made by his estranged wife and actress Apara Mehta regarding their marriage and separation.

Apara had reportedly claimed that Darshan told her he no longer loved her and called her the ‘ugliest woman’ he had ever met before leaving her on their wedding anniversary.

Speaking on Siddharth Kannan’s podcast, Darshan strongly denied making such a remark. He said he could never tell a woman that she was ugly and suggested that memories of incidents that happened many years ago can sometimes change over time.

‘It Could Be a Case of False Memory’

Darshan explained that there is a neurological phenomenon in which memories can change over time. He said he was confident that nothing like what had been described actually happened.

The actor added that he would never describe even a plain-looking woman as ugly because, according to him, it would be an absurd thing to say.

Darshan further said that he prefers to focus on a person’s character and inner qualities rather than their physical appearance.

‘She Is Welcome to Play the Victim Card’

Reacting to the allegations, Darshan said Apara was free to ‘play the victim card’ if she wanted to. However, he maintained that he had moved on from the past and was happy with his life today.

The actor has been in a relationship with interior designer and architect Anahita Italia since 2010, and the two have been living together.

Darshan Questions Why the Allegations Surfaced After 23 Years

Darshan also questioned why Apara had chosen to speak about the alleged incidents after so many years.

The actor said he could not understand why these matters were being discussed publicly 23 years after their separation, especially since, according to him, they had not been raised in the media earlier.

He added that he could only speak about his own side of the story and could not comment on Apara’s intentions.

Darshan said that people who genuinely know him are aware of the complete story and claimed that his version has remained consistent over the years.

Why Did Darshan and Apara Separate?

Darshan and Apara Mehta got married in 1982. According to Darshan, their relationship gradually changed as their priorities, circumstances and perspectives evolved.

He said their careers, personal circumstances and financial situation also played a role in their relationship falling apart.

The actor explained that two people can develop in different directions over time and that their priorities may no longer remain the same.

Despite their differences, Darshan said that both of them were determined to provide their daughter with the best possible childhood.

The Couple Has Been Living Separately for 23 Years

Darshan and Apara have reportedly been living separately for around 23 years, although they have never legally divorced.

Darshan revealed that he had initiated divorce proceedings by filing the necessary documents. However, the process could not be completed.

According to the actor, Apara initially agreed to the divorce but changed her decision before the judge, resulting in the proceedings not being completed.

Darshan Says He Left His Home for Apara and Their Daughter

The actor also recalled leaving his home in Santacruz West and allowing Apara and their daughter to continue living there after their separation.

Darshan said that at the time, that was what he could provide for his family. He also spoke about the financial difficulties he was facing and said that there was no question of seeking alimony under those circumstances.

The statements made by both Darshan Jariwala and Apara Mehta represent their respective accounts of their long-separated marriage, while the allegations remain disputed.