Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2026 campaign with a six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium, ending a 14-year run of opening-match defeats. Led by Hardik Pandya, the hosts delivered a strong performance to start their season on a positive note.
While the on-field result stood out, an emotional off-field moment also drew significant attention.
Mahieka Sharma Shields Agastya from Camera Flashes
As players and their families exited the stadium after the match, Mahieka Sharma was seen protecting Pandya’s son Agastya from a crowd of photographers.
Videos circulating online showed her asking photographers to avoid using flash cameras as they walked towards their car.
“No lights, no flashes,” she could be heard saying in several viral clips.
She was also seen covering Agastya’s eyes and requesting space from the crowd, saying “raasta de do (please give way)”.
The moment quickly gained traction on social media, with many praising her response, focus on the child’s comfort and the way she handled the situation in a crowded environment.
Mahieka Sharma’s Professional Background
Mahieka Sharma has built a career across modelling and acting, featuring in music videos, independent films and advertising campaigns. She has worked with brands such as Tanishq, Uniqlo and Vivo.
Her work in fashion includes runway appearances for designers including Manish Malhotra, Tarun Tahiliani and Anita Dongre. She also has an academic background in Economics and Finance.
Relationship with Hardik Pandya
Sharma has been in a relationship with Hardik Pandya since 2025. Their relationship drew attention on social media before being publicly confirmed later that year.
The cricketer confirmed the relationship in October 2025 in an Instagram post ahead of his birthday, referring to Sharma as his “11:11 wish”.
She has since been seen supporting him at matches and public appearances, including during the T20 World Cup 2026.
