Actress endured abuse for 15 years of marriage, explained why she didn't divorce
Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly highlights her enduring experience of domestic violence during her 15-year marriage and discusses the complexities that prevented her from leaving her abusive relationship.
In November 2025, Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly filed a case against her husband Peter Haag, accusing him of domestic violence, cruelty, and manipulation, and sought 50 crores in damages. This case was filed in the Andheri Court in Mumbai. Recently, Celina took to her Instagram account to address a common question posed to survivors of domestic abuse: why they didn’t leave their abusive partners sooner. In her detailed response, she shared her reflections on the complexities of abusive relationships and the psychological toll they take on individuals.
Celina elaborated on the difficult question of why someone stays in an abusive marriage for so long, particularly when it involves a seemingly successful and educated partner. She reflected on her own journey, questioning herself why she didn't leave after the first, second, or third incidents of abuse. She emphasized that the answer is far more complex than simply labeling oneself as blind or weak, noting that abuse often starts as an expression of love, eventually leading to deep emotional dependence and manipulation. These early stages can make it incredibly challenging for individuals to recognize the gradual shift towards a harmful relationship.
Her candid post seeks to shed light on the intricate dynamics of domestic abuse, which often include emotional rather than physical manifestations that may be overlooked by outsiders. Celina's insights not only serve to validate the experiences of many who have faced similar situations but also encourage a broader conversation about understanding and addressing domestic violence in society. By airing her story, she aims to empower other survivors and stresses the importance of support and understanding in navigating such difficult circumstances.