In a twist that stunned fans across the sporting world, Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal announced her separation from Indian shuttler Parupalli Kashyap on Sunday, marking the end of one of India’s most celebrated sports couples. But what caught many by surprise was what came just hours before the announcement: Kashyap posted a seemingly carefree snapshot from the Awakenings Festival, the world’s premier techno event, re-sharing happy moments with his “bestest” friends.
Saina’s Instagram post
Saina shared the news through a dignified and heartfelt Instagram post, confirming the separation. She revealed that, after much thought and consideration, she and Parupalli Kashyap had decided to part ways. Emphasising that their decision was rooted in a desire for peace, growth, and healing, Saina expressed gratitude to their well-wishers and requested privacy as they move through this personal transition.
Kashyap's Instagram post before the separation announcement
While Saina addressed the world directly, Kashyap has yet to release any formal statement. However, hours before the split went public, his Instagram told a different story — snapshots of fun, and music with his friends. His post from Awakenings Festival — a high-energy celebration of techno music — featured smiling faces, vibrant lights, and the caption referring to his companions as “bestest” as he reshared the photo on Instagram story.
Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap's love story
Saina and Kashyap’s journey began on the courts of Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, where they trained as young prodigies. Their friendship blossomed into love, and in December 2018, they tied the knot, becoming one of Indian badminton’s most adored couples. While Saina rose to historic heights — an Olympic bronze medal, a World No.1 ranking — Kashyap too carved his space, clinching gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and breaking into the world top 10.
Saina remains a trailblazer — the second Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (after Karnam Malleswari), and the only Indian woman to ever become World No.1 in badminton. Her influence transcends sport, inspiring an entire generation of Indian athletes.
Saina’s Instagram post
Saina shared the news through a dignified and heartfelt Instagram post, confirming the separation. She revealed that, after much thought and consideration, she and Parupalli Kashyap had decided to part ways. Emphasising that their decision was rooted in a desire for peace, growth, and healing, Saina expressed gratitude to their well-wishers and requested privacy as they move through this personal transition.
Kashyap's Instagram post before the separation announcement
While Saina addressed the world directly, Kashyap has yet to release any formal statement. However, hours before the split went public, his Instagram told a different story — snapshots of fun, and music with his friends. His post from Awakenings Festival — a high-energy celebration of techno music — featured smiling faces, vibrant lights, and the caption referring to his companions as “bestest” as he reshared the photo on Instagram story.
Saina Nehwal and Parupalli Kashyap's love story
Saina and Kashyap’s journey began on the courts of Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, where they trained as young prodigies. Their friendship blossomed into love, and in December 2018, they tied the knot, becoming one of Indian badminton’s most adored couples. While Saina rose to historic heights — an Olympic bronze medal, a World No.1 ranking — Kashyap too carved his space, clinching gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and breaking into the world top 10.
Saina remains a trailblazer — the second Indian woman to win an Olympic medal (after Karnam Malleswari), and the only Indian woman to ever become World No.1 in badminton. Her influence transcends sport, inspiring an entire generation of Indian athletes.
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