In the midst of a high-octane T20 World Cup campaign, Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya has captured hearts off the field with a series of romantic birthday posts for girlfriend Mahieka Sharma that have sent social media into a frenzy. The 32-year-old all-rounder pulled out all the stops to celebrate Mahieka’s 25th birthday on Thursday (February 19), sharing intimate glimpses of their relationship that quickly went viral among fans and followers.
Hardik Pandya’s viral birthday post: A romantic infinity pool embrace
Pandya kicked off the birthday celebrations by sharing a breathtaking photo on his Instagram story, featuring the couple locked in a warm embrace while standing in an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The cricketer kept his message simple yet deeply affectionate: “Happy birthday my princess,” followed by a string of heart and emoji symbols.
The romantic image captured the couple’s undeniable chemistry, with Hardik holding Mahieka close against a stunning backdrop of endless blue waters. Sri Lankan flags visible in the background hinted that the photo may have been taken during the Indian team’s recent stay in Colombo ahead of their blockbuster clash against Pakistan .
Mahieka, touched by the gesture, reshared the post on her own Instagram stories, adding a diamond emoji and an evil eye symbol, before posting another glimpse of her celebration dressed in black and posing in front of a heart-shaped birthday cake .
A video message from Hardik that melted hearts
Going beyond a single photograph, Pandya also treated his followers to a romantic video compilation featuring special moments with Mahieka. Set to the melodious backdrop of the classic love song “Saathiya,” the clip showed the couple enjoying quality time together in what appeared to be a lavish vacation setting .
Accompanying the video, Pandya penned an emotional note that left fans swooning. “Happy birthday my princess. Thank you for coming in this world 25 years ago. You are the most amazing person I know. I love you.,” he wrote.
Who is Mahieka Sharma? The woman behind the headlines
Mahieka Sharma, who turned 25 on Thursday, is far more than just a cricketer’s girlfriend. She is a full-time model and actor who has made significant strides in the fashion and entertainment industries .
The Gujarat-born model has featured in several music videos, independent films, and high-profile ad campaigns for prestigious brands including Tanishq, Vivo, and Uniqlo. Her ramp presence is equally impressive, having walked for top designers such as Manish Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani and Anita Dongre .
In 2024, Mahieka’s rising star was officially recognized when she received the ‘Model of the Year (New Age)’ award at the Indian Fashion Awards.
Beyond her glamorous profession, Mahieka brings academic depth to her profile. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in economics and finance from Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University in Gujarat before spending a year studying community psychology at the University of Maryland in the United States.
Mahieka and Hardik’s love story began generating public interest when they were spotted together at Mumbai airport in October 2025. The cricketer made their relationship Instagram official that same month, sharing a series of holiday pictures and describing her as his “11:11 wish.”
Since then, the couple has grown increasingly open about their bond. Following India’s T20I victory against South Africa last year, Pandya publicly credited Mahieka for her emotional support during his comeback phase. “A lot of credit goes to the loved ones who I had. Special mention to my partner as well. She’s been nothing but best to me since she has entered my life, and a lot of great things have happened since she has arrived,” he told the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
The couple has also been seen spending time with Pandya’s son Agastya, whom he shares with former wife Natasa Stankovic, signaling a blended family dynamic that has won appreciation from fans.
