Rajini Narayan, 44, appeared briefly in Adelaide Magistrates Court today charged over the fire at her family’s home in Unley early yesterday, AdelaideNow reported.

The fire left Satish Narayan with terrible burns and prosecutor Senior Sergeant Bruce Faehrmann said he may not survive.

“(Mr Narayan) was set on fire … his condition has deteriorated to the extent that he has 85 percent burns,” Sen-Sgt Faehrmann said.

“It is possible that he may not survive so the charges may be reviewed.”

The Advertiser understands police will allege Mrs Narayan put methylated spirits on her husband’s genitals as he slept then set fire to him.

Mr Narayan was believed to have knocked over the bottle of meths as he jumped out of bed, sparking a major blaze.

Mrs Narayan is charged with one count of aggravated causing harm with intent, arson and three counts of acts to endanger life.

Mrs Narayan stood with her back to the court at her hearing today.

She made no application for bail and was remanded in custody to appear in court in January.