Shefali Shah Opens Up About Emotional Abuse in First Marriage: “I Couldn’t Stay in a Relationship Without Love and Respect”

Acclaimed actress Shefali Shah recently spoke candidly about her first marriage to actor Harsh Chhaya, revealing the emotional abuse she endured and the challenges that led to their divorce. In a heartfelt interview, she highlighted how emotional abuse in marriages can be deeply damaging, yet is still considered a taboo subject.

Shefali, who is currently enjoying a successful professional journey, reflected on the painful experiences of her personal life. She married Harsh Chhaya in 1994, and the couple appeared together in the 1996 TV show Hasratein, winning audience admiration for their on-screen chemistry. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 2000.

Speaking to Zoom, Shefali explained how staying in that relationship became increasingly difficult. “No one told me that I am enough. You don’t need a husband, friend, brother, or sister to feel complete—you alone are enough. If your relationships are good, that’s great, but if they aren’t, it doesn’t diminish your value,” she said.

Shefali described the turning point in her life: “At some point, life’s ups and downs break you. You realize, ‘I can’t take this anymore.’ I remember a dear friend asked me if I would take the risk of being alone rather than staying in a relationship that didn’t give me happiness or a sense of belonging. I decided I would take that risk. I couldn’t stay in a place where I didn’t feel joy, confidence, or acceptance.”

Reflecting on emotional abuse, Shefali added, “Many people go through it. You are often asked, ‘He didn’t hit you, right?’ It becomes a mentality: ‘He didn’t physically hurt me, so it’s okay.’ But constant verbal insults, being called foolish, or being shouted at chips away at you. It completely breaks you as a person.”

After her divorce, Shefali eventually found happiness with director-producer Vipul Shah, marrying him in 2000, while Harsh Chhaya later married Bengali actress Sunita Gupta. Despite past hardships, Shefali said she has gained strength and independence, learning to prioritize her well-being and self-respect.