Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has addressed weeks of speculation surrounding her personal life, confirming that her planned wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal has been officially called off. The clarification came through a public statement posted on her Instagram account.
Mandhana, who is known for maintaining strong boundaries around her private life, stated that the persistent rumours and public curiosity made it necessary for her to speak directly.
“Over the past few weeks, there has been plenty of speculation around my life and I feel it is important for me to speak out at this time. I am a very private person and I would like to keep it that way, but I need to clarify that the wedding is called off,” she wrote.
Background to the Decision
The wedding was initially scheduled for November 23, 2025, following pre-wedding celebrations that had drawn significant attention on social media. The ceremony was postponed after Mandhana’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, suffered a medical emergency. Reports later indicated that Palash Muchhal also experienced stress-related health concerns.
Despite early assurances from both families that the ceremony would only be delayed, public speculation intensified when Mandhana removed wedding-related posts from her social media accounts and made her first appearance without her engagement ring.
Mandhana’s statement now confirms that the couple has decided not to proceed with the wedding, bringing clarity to weeks of widespread discussion.
Mandhana Reaffirms Commitment to Cricket
In her message, Mandhana emphasized that her focus remains firmly on her cricketing career.
“I believe there is a higher purpose driving us all and for me that has always been representing my country at the highest level,” she said. “I hope to continue playing and winning trophies for India for as long as possible, and that is where my focus will always be.”
She ended her statement with a request for privacy, saying that both families need time and space to move forward.
“I would like to close this matter here and request everyone to respect the privacy of both families during this time.”
Support From the Cricketing Community
The announcement comes ahead of a busy season for Mandhana, who is expected to feature prominently in India’s upcoming international fixtures and captain Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Her teammate Jemimah Rodrigues had earlier withdrawn from the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) to support her during the initial postponement, highlighting the strong camaraderie within the national squad.
Mandhana’s statement brings an end to the speculation, allowing her—and the families involved—to move forward with clarity.
