Chennai – In a significant development to the ongoing dispute between costume designer Joy Crizildaa and celebrity chef and actor Madhampatty Rangaraj, Crizildaa has moved the Chennai Family Welfare Court seeking a monthly maintenance of Rs 6.5 lakh from Rangaraj for her and their unborn child. The petition comes amidst a backdrop of allegations and counter-allegations between the two, which has drawn considerable media attention.
Crizildaa, who is in her final month of pregnancy, claims that Rangaraj is the father of her child and is obligated to provide financial support. She asserts that she is currently unable to continue her work as a fashion designer due to her pregnancy, leaving her without a source of income. The requested Rs 6.5 lakh monthly maintenance is intended to cover her medical expenses, house rent, car EMI and other essential living costs.
According to Crizildaa, she and Rangaraj were married in December 2023. She alleges that Rangaraj attempted to abandon her after she refused to terminate her pregnancy. Furthermore, she accuses him of concealing a previous marriage and deceiving her into marriage. These allegations led her to file a police complaint weeks after their marriage. Crizildaa also claims that Rangaraj has cheated other women.
Rangaraj, on his part, has denied the allegations and has taken legal action to protect his reputation. He previously filed a civil suit in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain Crizildaa from making defamatory statements against him and his company, Madhampatty Thangavelu Hospitality Private Limited, on social media. However, this petition was dismissed.
The legal battle between Crizildaa and Rangaraj has been multifaceted. Both parties appeared before the Chennai Women's Commission for questioning. Crizildaa has alleged political interference in the investigation of her initial complaint, claiming that no action was taken despite providing evidence.
Amidst the legal proceedings, Joy Crizildaa announced the birth of their baby boy on October 31, 2025.
This case raises important questions about matrimonial obligations, the rights of unborn children, and the responsibilities of partners during pregnancy. The court's decision on Crizildaa's maintenance petition could set a precedent for similar cases in the future. The hearing date for the maintenance petition is yet to be announced.
