(Image source from: Instagram.com/palash_muchhal)
Indian women's cricket star Smriti Mandhana has put an end to weeks of intense public and media speculation about her personal life, confirming that her eagerly awaited wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal has officially been cancelled. She made this announcement through an emotional statement on Instagram, where Mandhana, who usually keeps to herself, felt it necessary to address the rising rumors after the sudden delay of the ceremony last month. "In recent weeks, there has been a lot of guesswork about my life, and I think it’s important to speak up now. I value my privacy and want to keep it that way, but I need to make it clear that the wedding is off," Smriti's post on Instagram stated. The highly publicized wedding, which came after a five-year relationship and pre-wedding celebrations that gained attention online, was set for November 23, 2025. The event was postponed without a new date after Mandhana's father, Srinivas Mandhana, faced a sudden health issue, and it was reported that the groom, Palash Muchhal, was also hospitalized due to stress-related health problems.
Initially, family members from both sides calmed the public, stating that the wedding was just postponed and would happen soon. However, the later deletion of wedding-related content from Mandhana's social media accounts and her first public appearance without her engagement ring fueled speculation of a more serious break. Smriti's clear statement now brings a conclusion to the ongoing situation. In her request for privacy, the cricketer shifted the focus back to her professional duties, stating that her national career is her main goal. "I believe there's a higher purpose guiding us all, and for me, it's always been about representing my country at the highest level," she expressed. "I hope to continue playing and winning trophies for India as long as I can, and that will always be my main focus."
Mandhana wrapped up her message by directly asking the public to respect the privacy of both families during this tough time. "I want to close this chapter here and strongly urge everyone to do the same. I ask you to please respect the privacy of both families now and let us have the space to adapt and move on at our own speed." This announcement comes at a crucial moment for Mandhana, who is set to lead India in forthcoming international matches and captain the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women's Premier League (WPL). Her close friend and teammate, Jemimah Rodrigues, notably stepped back from the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) to support her during the initial shock of the postponement, highlighting the strong backing Mandhana has from the cricket community as she looks to advance.
