Prateek-Aparna Divorce: How Mulayam Singh’s Family Drama May Create Political Ripples In UP

Lucknow: The announcement of Prateek Yadav's intent to divorce his wife, Aparna Yadav, has sent ripples through Uttar Pradesh's political circles, reigniting discussions about the dynamics within the influential Yadav family and its potential impact on the state's political landscape. Prateek Yadav, son of the late Samajwadi Party (SP) founder Mulayam Singh Yadav and his second wife Sadhana Gupta, publicly accused Aparna Yadav, a BJP leader, of being selfish and ruining his family ties in a recent Instagram post.

The Announcement and Allegations

In a now-viral Instagram post, Prateek Yadav stated his intention to divorce Aparna, alleging that she is driven by fame and influence and has disregarded his mental health. "I am going to divorce this selfish woman as soon as possible. She ruined my family ties. All she wants to become is famous and influential," he wrote. He further claimed to be struggling with his mental health and accused Aparna of indifference. As of January 19, 2026, Aparna has not responded to these allegations.

Prateek Yadav: The Businessman

Unlike many members of the Yadav family, Prateek has stayed away from active politics, focusing instead on business ventures. An MBA graduate from Leeds University in London, he is involved in real estate and fitness entrepreneurship. He is the founder of Iron Core Fit, a gym in Lucknow, and the Jeev Aashraya Foundation, a non-profit animal welfare organization. Prateek's distance from politics is further highlighted by his luxury lifestyle, including a Lamborghini sports car, contrasting with the socialist image traditionally associated with the Yadav family.

Aparna Yadav: The Politician

Aparna Yadav, born Aparna Bisht, began her political career with the Samajwadi Party before joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in January 2022. She contested the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly election from the Lucknow Cantonment constituency on an SP ticket but was defeated by Rita Bahuguna Joshi of the BJP. In September 2024, she was appointed Vice Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh State Women's Commission. Aparna holds a Master's degree in International Relations and Politics from the University of Manchester, UK, and is also trained in classical and semi-classical singing.

The Yadav Family: A Political Dynasty

The Yadav family is one of the most influential political dynasties in Uttar Pradesh. Mulayam Singh Yadav, a three-time Chief Minister and founder of the Samajwadi Party, established a legacy that saw numerous family members enter politics. His son, Akhilesh Yadav, served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and is the current Samajwadi Party chief. Other family members have held positions in the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and state legislature.

Political Implications in UP

Aparna's shift to the BJP in 2022 was seen as a significant blow to the Samajwadi Party. Her decision reflected a growing trend of political figures crossing party lines, potentially impacting traditional political equations. The impending divorce introduces a new layer of complexity to the family's dynamics and its potential influence on Uttar Pradesh politics. The public nature of the dispute could further fuel existing tensions within the Yadav family, potentially affecting the Samajwadi Party's support base and future alliances. While Prateek Yadav has remained outside the realm of politics, the controversy surrounding his personal life cannot be viewed in isolation from the broader political context of Uttar Pradesh. The divorce may amplify existing divisions and create opportunities for rival parties to exploit perceived instability within the Yadav family.