The mere mention of Raghu Ram inevitably evokes memories of MTV Roadies, a reality show where he and his twin brother, Rajiv Lakshman, left an indelible mark. However, in a recent interview, Raghu opened up about the toll the show took on his mental well-being, shedding light on the personal sacrifices he made, including his divorce from actor Sugandha Garg.
Speaking to India Today, Raghu revealed the underlying reasons behind his departure from Roadies, citing conflicts with the channel as a primary factor. He expressed dissatisfaction with MTV’s evolving vision for the show, diverging from the creative freedom he once enjoyed. This clash of perspectives, particularly in the later seasons, contributed to his decision to walk away, even at the pinnacle of the show’s success.
Moreover, Raghu disclosed how the demanding nature of Roadies took a toll on his personal life, particularly his marriage. Amidst the frenzy surrounding the show, he found himself grappling with marital discord, ultimately leading to his divorce from Sugandha Garg after twelve years of marriage. Despite their separation, Raghu emphasized their amicable relationship post-divorce.
The toll on his mental and physical health became increasingly evident, prompting Raghu to prioritize self-care and step away from the spotlight. Reflecting on his departure, he expressed no regrets, affirming the necessity of prioritizing his well-being above professional commitments.
Regarding a potential return to Roadies, Raghu disclosed that while the channel extended an invitation for him and his brother to come back, he harbors no desire to revisit his past role. He remarked on the show’s evolution, asserting that the Roadies of today bears little resemblance to the format he once presided over alongside his brother. For Raghu, the era of Roadies he knew came to a definitive close with their departure.
Raghu Ram and Rajiv Lakshman’s tenure as judges on MTV Roadies spanned ten seasons, leaving an enduring legacy on the show’s trajectory. Their departure paved the way for subsequent hosts like Rannvijay Singha, signaling a new chapter in the show’s history. As MTV Roadies continues to evolve, Raghu Ram remains resolute in his decision to embrace new endeavors beyond the iconic reality show.
