Samantha Ruth Prabhu on life after divorce from Naga Chaitanya and rediscovering love with Raj Nidimoru: 'I closed up completely'

Samantha Ruth Prabhu has reflected on the emotional transformation she experienced following her separation from Naga Chaitanya, sharing how her relationship with Raj Nidimoru helped her rebuild trust and joy. The actor spoke candidly about navigating heartbreak in the public eye and gradually allowing herself to be vulnerable again. She described the journey as one of healing rather than simply moving on, emphasising how companionship reshaped her outlook on love.After her marriage ended in 2021, Samantha admitted she withdrew emotionally and struggled to imagine trusting anyone again. In a conversation with Vogue India, she shared, “When I went through a separation, I closed up completely. I didn’t think it would ever be possible to rely on someone else. Thankfully, I was vulnerable enough to accept that kind of love and friendship. And I’m a much better person because of the relationship I’m in. Because of the person Raj (Nidimoru) is”.People close to the actor observed a visible shift in her state of mind. One friend even sent her a voice message saying, “This is the first time in a long time that I feel like you’re not struggling to breathe.” Acknowledging the remark, Samantha responded simply, “I’m not performing anymore.” The statement underscored her sense of authenticity after years of coping under intense scrutiny. Samantha and Naga Chaitanya’s romance had been widely followed, from their 2017 Goa wedding to their separation four years later. Chaitanya subsequently married Sobhita Dhulipala in 2024. Meanwhile, Samantha grew close to Raj Nidimoru after collaborating on ‘The Family Man Season 2’, eventually tying the knot on December 1, 2025, in a temple ceremony at the Isha Foundation.The actor also acknowledged how challenging it was to undergo such personal upheaval while constantly in the spotlight. Yet she credits that difficult period for helping her redefine priorities and emotional boundaries. Rather than retreat from public life, she chose to confront the transition openly, which she says contributed to her growth. On the work side, Samantha will soon be seen in ‘Maa Inti Bangaram’, scheduled for a wide theatrical release on May 15. As she steps into this new phase personally and professionally, the actor appears focused on balancing meaningful work with a renewed sense of happiness.