‘Cheap Sensationalism’: Hardik Pandya Criticises Paps Over Girlfriend Mahieka’s Photos

Hardik Pandya on Tuesday criticised a section of paparazzi after photos and videos of his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma surfaced online, calling the coverage an unnecessary invasion of privacy.

The cricketer urged media personnel to maintain dignity and avoid turning routine moments into “cheap sensationalism.” Pandya posted a statement on Instagram expressing disappointment over the manner in which Mahieka was filmed while exiting a Bandra restaurant. He said the images were taken from an angle “no woman deserves to be photographed from,” and reminded photographers that public figures still deserve basic respect.

“I understand that living in the public eye comes with attention and scrutiny. It’s part of the life I’ve chosen. But today something happened that crossed a line,” he wrote. “A private moment was turned into cheap sensationalism. Women deserve dignity. Everyone deserves boundaries.”

He added that he respects the work of photographers and usually cooperates with them but requested greater sensitivity going forward. A video of paparazzi following Mahieka as she left the restaurant went viral earlier in the day, with many online users linking the clip to Pandya’s reaction.

Pandya’s Cricket Return

The India all-rounder is preparing for his comeback during the T20I series against South Africa in Guwahati on Tuesday. He has been recovering from a quadriceps injury sustained during the Asia Cup in September and has been out of competitive action for nearly two months.

Pandya has spent much of his recovery period with family and Mahieka, making their relationship public in October when he shared holiday photos on social media.

About Mahieka Sharma

Mahieka is a fashion model who has worked with brands such as Uniqlo and Tanishq and has walked for designers including Manish Malhotra, Anita Dongre and Tarun Tahiliani. According to her bio, she has been recognised with awards like IFA Model of the Year, GQ Best Dressed and Elle Model of the Season. Before entering modelling, she studied economics and finance.

Pandya’s relationship with Mahieka comes months after his amicable separation from Natasha Stankovic in 2024. The two continue to co-parent their son, Agastya.