- Monday, February 24, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Renowned playback singer Udit Narayan is facing fresh legal trouble as his first wife, Ranjana Jha, has filed a maintenance case against him, accusing him of violating her rights and usurping her property. This development comes amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the singer’s viral kiss video. On February 21, Udit Narayan appeared for a hearing at the Supaul Family Court but declined any settlement in the case.
According to a report by Navbharat Times, Udit Narayan has accused Ranjana Jha of attempting to extort money from him. This is not the first time she has taken legal action against him. A previous case was filed with the Bihar Women’s Commission, but the matter was resolved through a settlement.
Reports suggest that Udit had been providing financial support to Ranjana Jha, initially giving her Rs 15,000 per month, which he increased to Rs 25,000 in 2021. He also provided her with a house and farmland worth Rs 1 crore. Additionally, the Bihar Women’s Commission found that he had given her jewellery worth Rs 25 lakh and a plot of land, which she later sold.
Ranjana Jha, through her lawyer, has expressed her desire for companionship over financial settlements. “All I truly want is to be with Udit,” she shared, adding that as she grows older and faces health issues, her only wish is to spend the rest of her life with her husband.
Speaking to the media after the hearing, Ranjana claimed that she feels neglected by Udit Narayan. She further alleged that he withheld Rs 18 lakh from the sale of their land and that she feels unsafe whenever she visits Mumbai due to alleged threats and intimidation.
Udit Narayan and Ranjana Jha got married in 1984. However, as his career flourished, their relationship strained, and she claimed that he distanced himself from her, refusing to acknowledge their marriage. In 2006, she approached the Women’s Commission in search of security. At the time, Udit reportedly assured her of financial support and a home, but she later alleged that those promises were not entirely fulfilled.
The legal dispute has emerged at a time when Udit Narayan is already facing public backlash over a viral video from one of his live concerts. The clip, which shows him kissing female fans on the lips while performing Tip Tip Barsa Pani, spread rapidly on social media, drawing severe criticism. Many online users found his behavior inappropriate, adding to the singer’s ongoing controversies.
As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether a resolution will be reached between Udit Narayan and Ranjana Jha. For now, the singer maintains his stance against settling the matter, while Ranjana continues to fight for her rights.
