In a surprising turn of events, Indian cricket all-rounder Hardik Pandya and Serbian actress Natasa Stankovic have announced their separation on Thursday. The couple, who tied the knot in an intimate ceremony during the COVID-19 lockdown, shared the news through a joint statement on social media, requesting privacy and understanding from their fans and well-wishers.
The statement read,
“After a great deal of thought and consideration, we have decided to amicably part ways as husband and wife. We are grateful for the moments we’ve shared and the love we have for each other will always remain. This was a tough decision for us to make, given the joy, mutual respect, and companionship we enjoyed together and as we grew a family.
Our son Agastya will always be our top priority. We are devoted to giving him the best upbringing and will continue to be loving, caring parents. We ask for privacy during this difficult time as we navigate our new paths forward.”
Pandya and Stankovic’s relationship has been in the public eye since their engagement on January 1, 2020, which was celebrated with a lavish party attended by close friends and family. The couple welcomed their son, Agastya, in July 2020, adding a new dimension to their lives. Their social media was often filled with pictures of family outings and celebrations, giving fans glimpses of their life together.
Despite their seemingly perfect life, rumors of a rift had been circulating for some time. Sources close to the couple suggest that the pressures of their demanding careers might have played a significant role in their decision to separate. Pandya, a key player for the Indian cricket team and a prominent figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), often travels extensively for matches and training. Meanwhile, Stankovic has been balancing her career in the entertainment industry with her responsibilities as a mother.
Fans and fellow celebrities have expressed their support for the couple during this challenging time.
Virat Kohli (@imVkohli): “Wishing both Hardik and Natasa strength and peace as they go through this phase. Respect their privacy and support them in this decision. #StayStrong”
Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt): “Life can be unpredictable. Wishing Hardik and Natasa all the best for their future. Stay positive and take care of Agastya. #Support”
Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45): “Hardik and Natasa have been great together, but sometimes life has other plans. Sending love and strength to both. Agastya will always have our support. #FamilyFirst”
Anushka Sharma (@AnushkaSharma): “Heartfelt wishes to Hardik and Natasa during this time. Life’s journey has its ups and downs. Focus on the love for Agastya. #LoveAndLight”
Priyanka Chopra (@priyankachopra): “Hardik and Natasa, sending you both love and positive vibes. Take one day at a time and keep Agastya surrounded by love. #Strength”
Karan Johar (@karanjohar): “Relationships can be challenging, and sometimes parting ways is the best decision. Hardik and Natasa, wishing you peace and strength as you navigate this. #SupportAndLove”
Pandya, known for his flamboyant personality on and off the field, has always been vocal about the support he received from Stankovic throughout his career. In interviews, he often credited her for being his pillar of strength during tough times, including his injuries and rehabilitation periods.
Stankovic, who rose to fame in India with her participation in the reality show “Bigg Boss” and her performances in Bollywood films, has also been candid about the joys and challenges of being married to a professional athlete. In a recent interview, she mentioned, “Life with Hardik has been a roller-coaster ride, full of highs and lows, but it’s all been worth it for the love we share.”
Over the past few months, speculations had been rife over the relationship between Hardik and Natasa; they picked pace particularly after a horrid IPL season for Mumbai Indians, where Hardik was captain. Natasa had deleted all of her pictures with the all-rounder on Instagram, which fluelled the rumours over their separation.
The statement from Hardik comes shortly after the BCCI announced Team India’s squad for the limited-overs series against Sri Lanka,The news of their separation has left many fans heartbroken, but also hopeful that both Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stankovic will find peace and happiness in their respective journeys ahead.
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