When Hardik Pandya gifted Rs 5 lakhs to Natasa’s bridesmaids during Joota Chhupai wedding ritual

In a surprising announcement that has caught the attention of fans, Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya and his wife, actress Natasa Stankovic, have confirmed their divorce after four years of marriage. The couple shared their decision through a joint statement on social media, expressing their mutual respect and the difficult nature of their choice.

“After 4 years together, Natasa and I have decided to separate by mutual consent. We have done our best together and given our all, and we believe it is in both our best interests. This was a difficult decision for us to make, given the joy, mutual respect and camaraderie we have enjoyed together as we have grown as a family,” the statement read.

Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stankovic’s love story began in 2018 when they met at a nightclub in Mumbai. Their chemistry was undeniable and they quickly became a popular couple in the public eye. On January 1, 2020, they got engaged on a yacht, a moment that went viral due to its romantic setting and Natasa’s stunning diamond ring. The couple decided to tie the knot during the COVID-19 pandemic. On May 31, 2020, Hardik and Natasa had an intimate wedding ceremony, embracing parenthood soon after with the birth of their son, Agastya, on July 30, 2020.

On February 14, 2023, the couple renewed their wedding vows in a lavish ceremony in Udaipur, Rajasthan. One of the most talked-about moments of their wedding festivities was the traditional joota chhupai ceremony. This playful ritual involves the bride’s family hiding the groom’s shoes, and in exchange, the groom must negotiate to get his shoes back.

During this particular ritual, Pankhuri Sharma and other bridesmaids playfully asked for Rs 1 lakh for the return of Hardik’s shoes. To everyone’s surprise, Hardik responded with an offer of Rs 5 lakh, showcasing not only his playfulness but also his generosity. He asked a friend to transfer the money immediately, creating a light-hearted atmosphere that resonated with the guests. The moment quickly went viral, with fans praising Hardik’s extravagant gesture. The playful banter between Hardik and Pankhuri, along with Natasa’s smiles, made the moment one of the highlights of their wedding festivities.