Who does Raj end up with in The Big Bang Theory? His ending, explained

The Big Bang Theory
The Big Bang Theory (via Amazon Prime Video)

When The Big Bang Theory finally ended after 12 years, most of the main characters received a good sendoff. Sheldon had won his Nobel, Leonard and Penny were expecting a baby, and Howard and Bernadette were parenting experts. But of all the questions still on the fans' minds, there is one that pertains to Rajesh Koothrappali - the affable, accident-prone astrophysicist with a heart of gold. Did Raj finally find love after a long, messy dating history? Or was he doomed to be the eternal third wheel?

Let’s break down Raj’s romantic journey in The Big Bang Theory and what his ending really meant.

Raj's ending in The Big Bang Theory, explained!

Raj’s Rocky Road to Romance

Raj's love life was complicated. For the first few seasons in The Big Bang Theory, he couldn’t even speak to women without alcohol. Over time, he slowly came out of his shell, dating several women - some memorable (like Emily, the goth dermatologist), and some forgettable (like Claire).

He even came as far as getting settled once or twice, but it never came to fruition. For a time, it seemed as if he would finally have his opportunity at love when he began dating Anu, a concierge at a hotel with whom his parents had arranged him to go out. She was hard-working, confident, and seemed to be well-suited.

Raj even proposed to her, thinking that maybe this was the grown-up, stable relationship he needed. But in classic Raj fashion, doubts crept in. He realized he was trying too hard to force something that didn’t feel completely right.

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In The Big Bang Theory Season 12, Raj decides not to move to London with Anu, choosing instead to stay in California - single, but true to himself. Why Raj’s Ending Was Actually a Win At first glance, Raj ending up alone may feel a bit unfair.

After all, he was arguably the most romantic and emotionally open character in the group. Why didn’t he get a fairy tale ending? But look closer, and his arc is about growth, not just romance. Raj started the show not being able to talk to women, looking forward to finding that special "one."

He was able to say no to a woman about an inappropriate relationship by the end. That is a huge step. Unlike the others, Raj didn’t settle. He didn’t cling to a relationship just to fit in. He realized he didn’t need to be in a relationship to be happy. It was a mature, empowering choice - and honestly, kind of refreshing for a sitcom.

Plus, Raj ends the series surrounded by friends who love him, with his little dog Cinnamon by his side, and wearing a Bond-style tux at Sheldon’s Nobel ceremony. Not too shabby, right?

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Raj didn’t end up with a partner in The Big Bang Theory - but he did end up with peace of mind, self-respect, and a hopeful future. And hey, that might just be the most grown-up happy ending of them all.

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Edited by Zainab Shaikh