Samantha Ruth Prabhu Top Controversies: From Rs 250 Cr Divorce Alimony Rumours to K Surekha's Comments

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, one of the most talented and admired actresses in Telugu film industry, has often found herself in the eye of public scrutiny. While her career has soared with successful movies like Ye Maaya Chesave, Eega, Rangasthalam and Super Deluxe, her personal life, particularly her divorce from Naga Chaitanya, has been mired in controversies. From rumours of alimony to bold role choices, and most recently, Telangana Minister Konda Surekha’s shocking comments about her divorce, Samantha Ruth Prabhu has been grabbing headlines for all the wrong reasons. Here’s a look back at some of the biggest controversies that have surrounded the popular actress.

Samantha’s Alleged Rs 250 Crore Alimony Controversy

Samantha and Naga Chaitanya, once known as Tollywood’s golden couple, shocked their fans when they announced their separation in 2021 just days before their fourth wedding anniversary. While their split broke hearts, it was the subsequent rumour mill that grabbed even more attention.

Reports claimed Samantha had demanded an alimony sum of Rs 250 crore following the divorce. These rumours spiraled out of control, making headlines for months. However, during an appearance on Koffee With Karan 7, Samantha addressed the false reports. When Karan Johar asked her about the worst thing she had read about herself, she quipped, “That I took Rs 250 crore in alimony.” She went on to clarify, “First they made up the story about the alimony, Rs 250 crores. Then they realised that this doesn’t seem like a believable story. So they switched it to Rs 25 crores. The truth is, I didn’t take a penny from anyone.”

Bold Roles and Family Pressure Rumours

Samantha’s career choices were also speculated to be one of the reasons behind her divorce. Reports suggested that Naga Chaitanya’s family was uncomfortable with her performing bold scenes and doing glamorous photoshoots, leading to friction. Chaitanya himself hinted in an interview that he wouldn’t accept roles that could “tarnish his family’s name,” fuelling further speculation about the divide. Samantha, however, stayed unapologetic and continued to make bold choices, including her sizzling item song “Oo Antava Oo Oo Antava” in Pushpa, which made headlines for its timing right after her divorce.

The Myositis Treatment Controversy and Samantha’s Fiery Response

In 2023, Samantha was diagnosed with myositis, an autoimmune condition. The actress, known for her resilience, decided to take a break from acting for treatment. Unfortunately, this too became a source of controversy.

Reports emerged that Samantha had allegedly taken Rs 25 crore from a Telugu star to fund her treatment. Unamused by the rumours, Samantha took to her Instagram Stories to shut down the false claims. In a savage post, she wrote, “25 crores to treat myositis!? Someone got you a pretty bad deal. I’m glad I’m only spending a fraction of that. And no, I don’t think I was paid in marbles for all the work I’ve done.” Her post went viral, and fans praised her for standing up for herself and setting the record straight.

Feud with Chitti Babu Over Career Remarks

After the release of Shaakuntalam, producer Chitti Babu made some harsh comments about Samantha’s career. He claimed that her career as a heroine was over and she was trying to garner sympathy by sharing her health issues. “Her career is finished. She should continue doing whatever small roles she is offered. Playing the sympathy card won’t work every time,” Chitti Babu was quoted as saying.

Samantha, however, wasn’t one to remain silent. In a cryptic yet sharp Instagram post, she shared a Google search result about ear hair growth being linked to increased testosterone. She added the caption, “#IYKWIM” (If You Know What I Mean), sending a subtle but clear message to her detractors.

Samantha’s Response to Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala Affair Rumours

Soon after her divorce from Naga Chaitanya, rumours swirled about his alleged relationship with actress Sobhita Dhulipala. Fans of Chaitanya accused Samantha of planting the rumours to tarnish his image. The actress, however, had a fitting reply for these accusations. Taking to X, Samantha wrote, “Rumours on girl – Must be true! Rumours on boy – Planted by girl! Grow up guys… Parties involved have clearly moved on. You should move on too!!”

Misleading Liver Detox Controversy

In one of her wellness podcasts, Samantha spoke about the benefits of “detoxing the liver,” a concept that didn’t sit well with everyone. A medical professional called her out on X (formerly Twitter), accusing her of spreading misinformation. “This is Samantha Ruth Prabhu, a film star, misleading over 33 million followers on ‘detoxing the liver’,” the user posted alongside a clip from her podcast.

The controversy sparked debates about celebrities endorsing unscientific health trends and the responsibility they bear towards their followers.

Konda Surekha’s Explosive Divorce Allegation

The most recent controversy surrounding Samantha was sparked by Telangana Minister Konda Surekha’s shocking comments on her divorce from Naga Chaitanya. Surekha alleged that the couple’s marriage had ended due to an incident involving BRS leader KT Rama Rao and Samantha.

According to Surekha, KTR allegedly asked for Samantha to be sent to him in return for sparing Nagarjuna’s N-Convention Centre from demolition. When Samantha refused, Surekha claimed it led to the divorce.

Surekha’s comments have sparked widespread backlash, with many condemning the baseless accusations. Responding to the claim, Samantha took to Instagram to issue a strongly-worded statement. “My divorce is a personal matter, and I request that you refrain from speculating about it. Our choice to keep things private doesn’t invite misrepresentation. To clarify: my divorce was mutual consent and amicable, with no political conspiracy involved. Could you please keep my name out of political battles? I have always remained non-political and wish to continue doing so,” she wrote.

Despite being one of Tollywood’s most successful actresses, Samantha Ruth Prabhu has often found herself at the centre of controversies. Whether it’s her professional choices or personal life, the actress continues to face scrutiny. However, her resilience, grace and ability to address rumours head-on have only made her more beloved by her fans.