In a recent revelation, Raghu Ram, former judge of the iconic MTV reality show "Roadies," pointed fingers at the series for the downfall of his marriage and overall mental strain. Renowned for its rugged challenges and blunt critique, "Roadies" has been a staple of Indian television for over two decades, but for Raghu, the show's allure soured in its later seasons.
After a decade-long stint as a judge alongside his brother Rajiv, Raghu made a decisive exit, citing irreconcilable creative differences with MTV.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, he disclosed how the network's insistence on a more mainstream approach clashed with his vision for the show's integrity.
"My marriage was suffering," Raghu asserted, attributing the strain directly to his involvement with "Roadies." The toll on his personal life and mental health prompted him to take the drastic step of walking away, a decision he adamantly defends to this day. Reflecting on his departure, he stated, "Not one day have I regretted walking away."
Raghu's marriage to actor Sugandha Garg ultimately ended in divorce in 2016, a casualty of the tumultuous lifestyle engendered by his role on the show.
Despite overtures from the channel for a comeback, Raghu remains resolute in his stance, insisting that the "Roadies" he once knew ceased to exist the day he and his brother departed. Refusing to be drawn back into the fray, he expressed his disinterest in the current iteration of the show, likening its evolution to a departure from its original essence.
The departure of Raghu and Rajiv marked a significant transition for "Roadies," with subsequent seasons witnessing a revolving door of judges. Even Rannvijay Singha, a stalwart of the series, eventually parted ways. The latest lineup featured Prince Narula, Rhea Chakraborty, and Gautam Gulati as judges, with Sonu Sood assuming the role of super judge.
As Raghu Ram continues to vocalise his grievances, his departure serves as a stark reminder of the toll exacted by the relentless demands of reality television, even on its most seasoned veterans.
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