At the NDTV World Summit 2025, actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu reflected on life in the spotlight — one marked by immense success, personal trials, and an unflinching commitment to authenticity. Known for
her candour, the actor spoke about how her decision to live truthfully has often meant that her private battles became public conversations.
Whether it was her myositis diagnosis — which she chose to share with her fans in an emotional post — or her high-profile divorce from actor Naga Chaitanya, Samantha said both experiences taught her the price and power of being “real.”
“Authenticity Is A Work In Progress”
Speaking candidly about her personal evolution, Samantha shared, “I don’t think authenticity is the final destination — it is a work in progress. I don’t have everything sorted; I don’t have my life sorted. But I’m able to speak about it. I’m not perfect; I might make mistakes, I might stumble, but I’m trying to be better.”
The actor’s words echoed the resilience that has defined her journey — from facing health challenges to rebuilding herself after heartbreak, all under relentless public scrutiny.
On The Naga Chaitanya Breakup: “It Came With Trolling And Judgment”
Samantha also reflected on how being in the public eye meant her most painful moments became subjects of national discussion, “My life — anyone who has followed my journey — is aware of the personal struggles. The separation, the illness — they have all been very public. It has come with a lot of trolling and judgment; a lot of judgment for being open and vulnerable,” she said.
Her marriage with Naga Chaitanya, which lasted four years, ended in 2021. The news became a media frenzy, prompting endless commentary. Despite the scrutiny, Samantha said she does not regret being transparent — calling it a part of her ongoing pursuit of truth and self-acceptance.
“I Come From Struggle”
The actress also revisited her modest beginnings — growing up in a financially struggling household — and how success brought a new kind of pressure, “There was a time when we couldn’t afford to put food on the table. When I finally found success, it felt like a war inside me — a need to find purpose and hold on to it,” she shared.
Through all her trials, Samantha said she continues to seek meaning and grace, balancing vulnerability with strength. Her story, she added, is not just about fame or failure — but about growth.
A Quiet Strength
Today, Samantha Ruth Prabhu stands as one of India’s most admired and outspoken actors — a woman who refuses to hide behind perfection. Her openness, she admits, comes with consequences, but also connection. “If my honesty makes even one person feel less alone,” she said, “then it’s worth it.”
Meanwhile, her former husband Naga Chaitanya has since remarried actor Sobhita Dhulipala, while Samantha continues to focus on her health, career, and purpose — proving that healing, like authenticity, is an ongoing journey.
