India all-rounder Hardik Pandya has often been seen seeking blessings at various temples, from the Mahakaleshwar Temple to performing pujas at his residence. The cricketer has been facing backlash after Mumbai Indians' disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, where he led the side as captain. Following the IPL debacle, Hardik largely stayed away from the limelight and media appearances. Instead, he spent time holidaying with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma, regularly sharing photos and videos from their trips on Instagram.
On Sunday, Hardik was spotted at the Tirumala temple with Mahieka, where he surprised everyone by shaving off his head as an offering before praying at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. Several photos and videos showed Hardik and Mahieka attending the temple's Suprabhatam Seva, one of its most revered morning rituals, before seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
Hardik Pandya donating his hair at the Tirumala temple earned him praise, as many devotees traditionally offer their hair at the shrine as a mark of faith and gratitude. However, the cricketer has not revealed the reason behind shaving his head.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by ?????? (@loylerohitfan45)
The temple visit comes at a crucial stage in Pandya's career as he continues his recovery from injury. The all-rounder has been sidelined since suffering back stiffness and a subsequent thigh injury following the IPL 2026 season. Reports suggest he has completed his rehabilitation and return-to-play protocols at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, putting him in contention for India's upcoming white-ball assignments.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Beautiful Tirupathi (@beautifultirupathi)
Hardik Pandya missed the limited-overs series against Afghanistan, the ODI and T20I tour of England, and the white-ball series in Zimbabwe. In fact, he has not featured in competitive cricket since leading the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026, where the five-time champions failed to qualify for the playoffs.
Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are reportedly leading the race to acquire Pandya in a marquee trade deal. Media reports suggest that initial negotiations between Mumbai Indians and CSK have centred around potential player-plus-cash trade packages.
-
Air India Names Former Ethiopian Airlines Chief Tewolde Gebremariam As CEO
-
Israel Launches Strikes In Southern Lebanon, Claims Hezbollah Violation
-
Will Kobbie Mainoo make Manchester United’s starting XI after a delayed return and £83m midfield spend?
-
President Trump Warns Iran Of 'Very Hard' Strikes If It Rejects Deal, Threatens Action Over Strait Of Hormuz
-
Massachusetts Governor Declares August 15 As 'India Day' To Honour Indian Diaspora Contributions
