Divorces are never easy, but when it comes to the lives of celebrities, especially beloved Indian cricketers, they often come with a hefty price tag. Today, we delve into the stories of five Indian cricketers whose marriages ended in expensive divorces, showcasing how the personal lives of these sports icons can be as dramatic and eventful as their careers on the field.
1. Hardik Pandya and Natasa Stanković
Hardik Pandya, the dynamic all-rounder of the Indian cricket team, has always been in the limelight, whether for his on-field exploits or off-field controversies. His marriage to Serbian actress Natasa Stanković was no different. The couple’s relationship moved quickly, with Hardik announcing their engagement on New Year’s Day 2020 and marrying shortly after. They welcomed their son, Agastya, in July 2020.
However, as their whirlwind romance began to fade, rumors of their separation started swirling. The news that captured everyone’s attention was the staggering alimony agreement. Hardik had signed a contract stating that if they ever divorced, Natasa would receive 70% of his property. This potential transfer of assets places their divorce among the most expensive in Indian cricket history.
2. Shikhar Dhawan and Ayesha Mukherjee
Shikhar Dhawan, known for his explosive batting and signature mustache, also faced a high-profile divorce. He married Ayesha Mukherjee, a Melbourne-based boxer, in 2012. Their relationship was much talked about, given the age difference and Ayesha’s previous marriage. The couple seemed inseparable, often sharing glimpses of their happy family life on social media.
But after nine years of marriage, they decided to part ways in 2021. The divorce settlement saw Shikhar parting with 50 crores and 30% of his property as alimony to Ayesha. This substantial amount underscores the significant financial impact of their split.
3. Dinesh Karthik and Nikita Vanjara
Dinesh Karthik’s personal life has seen its fair share of ups and downs. The cricketer-turned-commentator married his childhood friend Nikita Vanjara in 2007. However, their marriage lasted only five years. The divorce was amicable, but the financial aftermath was notable, with Dinesh reportedly paying Nikita 5 crores per month in alimony.
Three years after their divorce, Dinesh found love again and married Indian squash star Dipika Pallikal. Despite the previous financial strains, Dinesh and Dipika’s marriage has been a happy chapter in his life.
4. Vinod Kambli and Noella Lewis
Vinod Kambli, once a prodigious talent in Indian cricket, also experienced a costly divorce. Kambli married his childhood friend Noella Lewis in 1994. Their marriage, which started with much promise, ended in 2005. At the time of their divorce, Kambli agreed to pay Noella a staggering 20 crores in alimony. The hefty settlement highlighted the financial repercussions of their separation.
5. Mohammed Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani
Former Indian cricket captain Mohammed Azharuddin and Bollywood actress Sangeeta Bijlani’s marriage was a blend of sports and glamour. They tied the knot in 1996, and their relationship was often under the media spotlight. However, after 14 years, the couple decided to part ways in 2010. The divorce settlement, while not publicly disclosed in detail, was speculated to be substantial given Azhar’s career earnings and Bijlani’s status.
The High Cost of Separation
These stories shed light on the personal sacrifices and financial implications faced by Indian cricketers when their marriages end. The glamorous lifestyles, massive earnings, and public scrutiny add layers of complexity to their divorces. The hefty alimony and property settlements reflect not just the cricketers’ financial stature but also the emotional toll of their separations.
Divorce Settlement Costs Table
| Cricketer | Ex-Spouse | Divorce Settlement |
|---|---|---|
| Hardik Pandya | Natasa Stanković | 70% of his property |
| Shikhar Dhawan | Ayesha Mukherjee | 50 crores + 30% of his property |
| Dinesh Karthik | Nikita Vanjara | 5 crores per month |
| Vinod Kambli | Noella Lewis | 20 crores |
| Mohammed Azharuddin | Sangeeta Bijlani | Speculated to be substantial (exact amount undisclosed) |
Conclusion
While these cricketers continue to inspire millions with their performances on the field, their personal lives remind us that fame and fortune come with their own set of challenges. The expensive divorces of Hardik Pandya, Shikhar Dhawan, Dinesh Karthik, Vinod Kambli, and Mohammed Azharuddin offer a glimpse into the high-stakes world of celebrity marriages. As fans, we can only hope that they find happiness and peace in their personal lives, just as they strive for excellence in their professional careers.
