Jayam Ravi calls Keneeshaa Francis his 'lifeline' in emotional note; accuses Aarti of emotional and financial abuse

Economic Times

15-05-2025

Actor Ravi Mohan, also known as Jayam Ravi, has responded publicly to allegations from his estranged wife, Aarti. In a detailed statement, he accused her of emotional, financial, and physical abuse throughout their 20-year marriage. He denied claims that he abandoned his family for actress Keneeshaa Francis, describing her instead as his "lifeline" during a time of deep personal crisis. Ravi also alleged that Aarti used their children to manipulate him and asserted that his silence was a survival mechanism.
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Claims of Abuse and Isolation
Custody Conflict and Estrangement from Children
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Defending Keneeshaa Francis Amid Backlash
Tamil actor Ravi Mohan, popularly known as Jayam Ravi, has publicly responded to serious allegations made by his estranged wife Aarti. In a detailed statement shared on Instagram, the actor addressed issues surrounding their ongoing separation, accused Aarti of long-term emotional and financial abuse, and defended his relationship with spiritual therapist Keneeshaa Francis. The post marks the first time Ravi has spoken openly since his wife accused him of abandoning their children and leaving her in financial distress.In his statement, Ravi described the years of his marriage as marked by various forms of abuse—physical, emotional, mental, and financial. He claimed that during the marriage, he was isolated from his own parents and denied any opportunity to support them financially. 'I was also caged in isolation from ever meeting my own parents through these years,' he wrote, stating that his earnings were allegedly controlled and used to fund a lifestyle for Aarti and her family, while his own family was left out.The actor also said he was burdened with massive financial loans, deprived of his own earnings and decisions related to his career and social presence. He expressed that leaving the marriage was not an easy decision, but one he made after enduring years of hardship. He emphasized that his silence all this while should not be mistaken for guilt, calling it a form of survival.Ravi further alleged that he has been denied access to his children since the separation. Apart from one court-mandated meeting during Christmas, he claimed all forms of communication with them have been systematically severed. He stated that even bouncers now accompany the children to prevent him from approaching them, calling it heartbreaking and unfair. He added that he was informed about his children's car accident only when his signature was needed for a vehicle repair, not as a father.Addressing Aarti directly in his post, Ravi warned her not to use their children to fuel public narratives or sway sympathy. 'Stop our game now,' he wrote, stating he would only deal with her further in court. He expressed hope that the truth would eventually come to light and that his children would someday understand his decisions.Amid online attacks on his rumored partner Keneeshaa Francis, Ravi defended her, calling her his "lifeline." He explained that Keneeshaa entered his life initially as a friend during a time when he was emotionally shattered. 'She stood by me on the night I left my own home barefoot, in a night suit,' he wrote, explaining that he had been stripped of all essentials, including his wallet, vehicle, documents, and dignity.Ravi stated that Keneeshaa was present not for attention or fame, but out of genuine empathy and emotional strength. He insisted he would not tolerate any disrespect toward her or her profession. He revealed that she is a spiritual therapist and a talented singer, though she never acted as his therapist due to ethical considerations. According to Ravi, she reminded him of his worth and helped him regain a sense of purpose when he was at his lowest.In closing, Ravi expressed gratitude to his supporters and fans who have stood by him. He said he remained committed to pursuing justice through legal channels rather than engaging in public spectacle. He emphasized that healing should occur in courtrooms, not on social media.Ravi Mohan and Aarti were married in 2009 and share two sons, Aarav and Ayaan.