Raqesh Bapat, the charming TV actor known for shows like Tum Bin and Bigg Boss OTT, has often been in the spotlight for his personal life. One question that frequently pops up in searches is about his ex-wife. Yes, we’re talking about the talented actress Ridhi Dogra — his former spouse who remains a close friend even years after their divorce.
Their story stands out in the entertainment industry as a mature, respectful separation rather than a messy breakup. Let’s dive into the details of their relationship, marriage, split, and what happened next — all updated with the latest insights as of 2026.
Table of Contents
How Raqesh Bapat and Ridhi Dogra Met and Fell in Love
The couple’s journey began on the sets of the popular TV show Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak? back in 2010. Raqesh and Ridhi started as co-stars, quickly became good friends, and soon realized their connection ran deeper.
- They bonded over long shooting hours and shared values.
- Their friendship naturally evolved into romance.
- After dating for some time, the couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in May 2011.
Fans loved their on-screen and off-screen chemistry, and they were often seen as one of television’s most grounded couples.
The Marriage Years and Growing Challenges
For nearly eight years, Raqesh and Ridhi built a life together. They supported each other’s careers — Ridhi continued shining in shows like Asur and films, while Raqesh explored modeling, TV, and later reality shows.
However, like many long-term relationships, they faced moments where things didn’t align perfectly. In early 2019, the couple announced they were living separately. Their joint statement was refreshingly honest:
- “We are two best friends who may not be a couple anymore.”
- The decision came with “mutual respect and care for each other and our families.”
- They emphasized that their friendship would continue “through thick and thin.”
No public drama, no blame game — just two adults choosing honesty over forcing a mismatched partnership.
The Divorce and Surprising Reason Behind It
The official divorce was finalized in 2019 after their separation announcement. In recent interviews (including Ridhi’s podcast appearance in early 2026 and Raqesh’s chats on Bigg Boss Marathi 6), both have opened up about the real reason.
Ridhi explained it clearly: “We were not compatible as partners, as husband and wife, but we are very, very good friends.” She added that ending the marriage actually saved their friendship because they stepped away before resentment built up.
Raqesh echoed similar sentiments, sharing that he married his friend but realized they weren’t suited for lifelong partnership. He mentioned feeling guilt initially but emphasized mutual respect.
Here’s a quick overview of key details in a simple table:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Ex-Wife Name | Ridhi Dogra |
| Marriage Date | May 2011 |
| How They Met | On the sets of Maryada: Lekin Kab Tak? (2010) |
| Separation Announced | February 2019 |
| Divorce Finalized | 2019 |
| Main Reason Shared | Not compatible as life partners |
| Current Status (2026) | Very good friends; both remain unmarried |
| Post-Divorce Bond | Mutual respect, support, and friendship |
This table sums up the timeline and facts that people often search for.
Life After Divorce: Friendship That Lasts
What makes Raqesh and Ridhi’s story special is how they’ve handled life post-divorce. As of February 2026:
- Both have confirmed they are still single and haven’t remarried.
- They continue to wish each other well publicly and privately.
- Ridhi has supported Raqesh during tough times (like his Bigg Boss OTT journey).
- Raqesh speaks warmly about her, calling their bond unbreakable.
Their equation proves that sometimes walking away preserves something more valuable than a forced marriage — genuine friendship and respect.
Conclusion
Raqesh Bapat’s ex-wife, Ridhi Dogra, isn’t just a chapter from his past; she’s proof that endings can be graceful and friendships can endure. In an industry full of dramatic splits, their story reminds us that compatibility matters more than staying together for appearances.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious about celebrity relationships, Raqesh and Ridhi show that maturity and honesty can turn an ex into a lifelong friend. Their journey continues to inspire many even in 2026.
Updated: February 10, 2026