Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has broken his silence on his high-profile divorce from choreographer and social media influencer Dhanashree Verma, speaking candidly about the reasons behind their separation, the hurt caused by cheating allegations, and his personal battle with depression and suicidal thoughts.
Chahal, who married Dhanashree in December 2020 after meeting her during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealed in a conversation with entrepreneur Raj Shamani that cracks in their marriage began to appear by the third year. Both were deeply focused on their individual careers — Chahal in cricket and Dhanashree in her dance and digital career — which, over time, created emotional distance.
“A relationship is like a compromise. Sometimes the nature of two people does not match. I was playing for India, she was busy with her own work. Over time, I couldn’t give enough attention to the relationship,” Chahal explained.
Keeping the Divorce Private
The couple decided to keep their separation process away from the public eye until it was finalised earlier this year in May. “We didn’t want to announce anything until we reached a point of no return,” Chahal said, admitting that they maintained a normal appearance on social media despite their personal struggles.
Cheating Allegations and Public Scrutiny
Amid the divorce proceedings, social media speculation accused Chahal of infidelity — a charge he firmly denied.
“I have never cheated in my life. I am one of the most loyal people you will meet. But when people don’t know the truth and still blame you, it hurts deeply,” he said.
Chahal also pointed out that he grew up with two sisters and was raised to respect women. He condemned the tendency of some to write unverified allegations online just to attract attention.
Mental Health Crisis
The period following the cheating rumours and divorce took a severe toll on Chahal’s mental health. He disclosed that he suffered from sleeplessness, depression, and even contemplated suicide.
“I had suicidal thoughts. I would cry for two hours and sleep for only two. This went on for 40–45 days. I wanted to take a break from cricket because I couldn’t concentrate,” he said.
Chahal credited his friends and family for supporting him through the ordeal, helping him to begin recovering mentally and emotionally.
A Symbolic Courtroom Statement
Ahead of the final divorce hearing, Chahal made headlines when he arrived in court wearing a black T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Be Your Own Sugar Daddy.” The cricketer later confirmed the message was intentional, explaining that he had not planned to wear it initially but decided to after a triggering incident from the “other side” of the dispute.
“I didn’t abuse anyone. I just wanted to give a message,” he said.
Rumours suggested that Dhanashree was seeking ₹60 crore in alimony, though her family denied the figure. Chahal did not confirm details but hinted that the settlement worked in his favour.
The leg-spinner, now looking to move forward, has urged people to be more sensitive when commenting on the personal lives of public figures.
