Indian badminton fans were taken by surprise after Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal publicly announced her separation from fellow shuttler and husband Parupalli Kashyap. The announcement, which came late Sunday night on social media, ended nearly seven years of marriage for one of Indian sport’s most celebrated couples. While Kashyap has remained silent about the development so far, his last Instagram story, posted just hours before the announcement, is now drawing attention.
Kashyap’s Instagram story, shared approximately six hours before Saina’s post, showed him enjoying his time at the Awakenings Festival in Hilvarenbeek, Netherlands. The post, which featured Kashyap surrounded by friends and seemingly relaxed, was captioned with a single word: “Bestest.” Though brief, the post gave the impression that Kashyap was in a positive and healthy mental space, despite the emotional weight of the announcement that was soon to follow.
Saina Nehwal’s post was both candid and respectful. She wrote, “Life takes us in different directions sometimes. After much thought and consideration, Kashyap Parupalli and I have decided to part ways. We're choosing peace, growth, and healing – for ourselves and each other.” She further added, “I'm grateful for the memories and wish nothing but the best moving forward. Thank you for understanding and respecting our privacy during this time.”
The couple had tied the knot in December 2018, after years of companionship that began through their shared journey in badminton. Their marriage was celebrated widely by fans and the sporting fraternity alike. Both Saina and Kashyap have had illustrious careers that have significantly contributed to the rise of Indian badminton on the global stage.
Parupalli Kashyap, who announced his retirement from professional badminton in 2024, has since taken up coaching and continues to remain involved in the sport. His career was marked by several milestones, including becoming the first Indian male shuttler to reach the quarterfinals of Olympic badminton at the London Games in 2012. The following year, he climbed to a career-best world ranking of No. 6. In 2014, Kashyap made history again by clinching the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, becoming the first Indian male player in 32 years to win the CWG singles title.
Saina Nehwal, on the other hand, is one of India’s most accomplished female athletes. A two-time Commonwealth Games champion and an Olympic bronze medalist from the 2012 London Olympics, she has been a trailblazer for Indian women in sports. Her achievements have not only inspired a new generation of athletes but also elevated India’s stature in international badminton.
While the couple often kept their personal life away from the public spotlight, their journey together had always been a point of interest for fans. Their joint appearances at tournaments, training sessions, and public events had painted the picture of a bond rooted in mutual respect and shared ambition. The news of their separation has come as a shock to many, particularly because it followed so closely on the heels of Kashyap’s cheerful post.
Speculation had been building for a few weeks, as both had noticeably reduced their interactions on social media and had not been seen together in recent public events. However, the confirmation from Saina has now put all speculation to rest, offering clarity while also requesting privacy.
The sports fraternity has responded with messages of support and respect for both athletes. While the personal chapter of their lives may be closing, both Saina and Kashyap remain respected figures in Indian badminton. Their respective contributions to the game continue to inspire countless young players across the country.
As they embark on new personal journeys, fans and well-wishers are hopeful that both Saina and Kashyap will find peace and continued success in their lives. Whether through coaching, mentoring, or personal pursuits, their legacy in Indian badminton remains unshaken. The story of their professional and personal partnership may have reached its end, but their individual stories are far from over.
