'I wanted to end things,' Raj Kundra recalls jail experience
Businessman Raj Kundra—who spent two months in Mumbai's Arthur Road jail in 2021, due to a pornography case—recently opened up about the emotional turmoil he experienced behind bars. In an interview with Indian Express, Kundra shared that he felt "broken" and even contemplated "ending things" at certain points during his incarceration. However, he expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support of his wife, actor Shilpa Shetty Kundra. Kundra is all set to make his acting debut with UT 69.
Why does this story matter?
Kundra's legal ordeal began on July 19, 2021, when he was arrested as the "key conspirator" in a case related to pornography. The investigation into this matter had begun in February of the same year. The allegations against Kundra involved the creation of pornographic content disguised as short films for OTT platforms. Following an extended period in custody, he was granted bail in September 2021 by a metropolitan magistrate's court.
'I had really broken down...enough to probably end things inside'
While in jail, Kundra endured significant emotional turmoil due to the embarrassment and damage to his reputation caused by the case. He confessed, "I had really broken down, enough to probably end things inside. There was so much humiliation, reputational damage." "Because of me, the media went behind my wife, children, and parents. That was painful. I knew what was going on outside. But what can you do?" he further added.
'Shilpa and I would write letters to each other'
Further in the interview, Kundra acknowledged that his connection with Shetty remained a vital source of support and strength. "We got one call a week for a few minutes and then Shilpa and I would write letters to each other. I got a lot of support from her." Kundra also shared that when he received that first call and heard his wife's words of encouragement, he "saw a purpose in life to continue."
When Shetty suggested Kundra get a fresh start abroad
Kundra, during this conversation also revealed that Shetty was so concerned about his well-being that she suggested the possibility of moving abroad for a fresh start. He recalled Shetty saying, "Do you want to live abroad? You left everything in London; you were born and brought up there, you moved here because I wanted to be here." To this, Raj responded with an unwavering love for India, saying, "I love India and won't leave."
Everything about Kundra's acting debut in 'UT 69'
Kundra is currently preparing for his acting debut in UT 69, directed by Shahnawaz Ali. The movie is inspired by the real-life ordeals of Kundra during his time at Arthur Road jail. Going by the trailer, the film delves into the complexities of his situation, blending reality and satire for an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. UT 69 is slated for a theatrical release on November 3.
