'Had to rescue myself': Celina Jaitly on Returning to India During Divorce Battle

Former actress and ex-Miss India Celina Jaitly is navigating one of the most challenging phases of her life, juggling a high-profile marital dispute and a deeply personal family crisis. From a domestic violence case against her husband to a legal battle for her brother’s release, the past few months have been emotionally intense for the actor.

Why Celina Jaitly Returned to India

Celina recently revealed that her decision to come back to India amid her divorce proceedings was driven by sheer necessity. Speaking about the move, she said she returned to “rescue” herself, explaining that it was about reclaiming her dignity, self-respect and independence. Being back home, she shared, gave her the emotional strength and clarity to speak up and face her battles head-on.

She also opened up about a disturbing incident that pushed her to take this step. Celina said that she was served divorce papers in a deeply distressing way. She said she was asked to visit a post office on the pretext of collecting a gift, only to be handed legal documents instead. The experience left her shaken and emotionally exposed. Even after the marriage had effectively ended, she felt there were efforts to weaken her independence, a realisation that ultimately strengthened her resolve to return to India and reclaim control of her life.

Divorce Case Enters Legal Phase

Celina and her husband, Austrian hotelier Peter Haag, were married for 15 years before their separation turned legal. Last month, she reportedly filed a domestic violence case and sought Rs 100 crore as compensation, along with monthly maintenance. The couple appeared before a metropolitan magistrate’s court in Andheri on December 12, where both were directed to submit their income affidavits by January 27.

A Parallel Battle for Her Brother

Alongside her marital dispute, Celina is also fighting for her brother, Major Vikrant Kumar Jaitly (Retired), who has been detained in the UAE since September last year. She has filed a plea in court and says she is pursuing every possible legal and diplomatic channel to seek his release.
Calling the situation extremely sensitive, Celina shared that the most painful part has been the lack of free communication with her brother. The uncertainty and silence, she said, have taken a heavy emotional toll on her and her family.

A Bond That Runs Deep

Celina described her brother as her strongest pillar during the darkest moments of her life. From caring for their ailing parents to supporting her as her marriage began to fall apart, she said he stood by her without judgement and helped her stay grounded.

A Ray of Hope

There has been some movement in the case. Earlier this month, the Delhi High Court directed the Ministry of External Affairs to inform Major Vikrant Kumar Jaitly, during the next consular access, that his sister wishes to communicate with him. The court also asked the ministry to explore all possible options, including digital platforms like the TAMM app, to facilitate contact. The next hearing is scheduled for December 23.

As Celina Jaitly battles on multiple fronts, her story reflects resilience, resolve and a determination to reclaim control, both for herself and for those she loves.