‘She’s been the best’: Hardik Pandya’s heartfelt shoutout to girlfriend Mahieka after slamming paparazzi

Team India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya had plenty to celebrate after guiding India to a commanding 101-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I in Cuttack. The star all-rounder lit up the Barabati Stadium with a superb all-round performance, ensuring the crowd got their money’s worth. 

But beyond his on-field brilliance, Hardik made headlines for a heartfelt tribute to his partner, Mahieka Sharma, coming just a day after he publicly criticised paparazzi for intrusive behaviour.

Hardik’s Match-Winning Brilliance

India found themselves in trouble at 78/4, but Hardik rescued the innings with a stunning unbeaten 59 off 28 balls, powering the team to 175/6. He later chipped in with a wicket as India bowled out South Africa for 74, taking a 1–0 lead in the five-match series.

After the emphatic win, Hardik took a moment to acknowledge Mahieka’s influence on his life and performance.

“A special mention to my partner… she’s been nothing but the best to me ever since she came into my life,” Hardik said in a BCCI.TV video.

He added that staying honest and true to himself has helped him grow both personally and professionally.

Also Read: Hardik Pandya slams paparazzi for “unacceptable” invasion of girlfriend Mahieka Sharma’s privacy

A Strong Rebuke to Paparazzi Culture

The emotional tribute came soon after Hardik blasted paparazzi for what he called a 'cheap' and disrespectful act.

In an Instagram story, he expressed outrage after photographers captured Mahieka from an inappropriate angle while she was walking down stairs at a Bandra restaurant.

“A private moment was turned into cheap sensationalism,” he wrote, calling the incident a violation of dignity and privacy.

Love Made Public

Hardik recently confirmed his relationship with model and yoga trainer Mahieka Sharma, making it official in October 2025 through intimate photos and videos shared ahead of his 32nd birthday.

As Hardik shines on the field, his heartfelt acknowledgement of Mahieka and his strong stance against invasive media behaviour reflect a man determined to protect both his performance and his personal life with equal passion.