- Nasima Akter
5 Cricket Stars that wed Bollywood Beauties
The worlds of Cricket and Bollywood, two of India's most cherished passions, have collided on numerous occasions, creating a fascinating blend of glamour and sportsmanship. The bond between cricket stars and Bollywood beauties has captivated the imagination of fans and media alike, transcending the realms of both sports and entertainment.
In recent years, we have witnessed some enchanting love stories unfold as renowned cricket personalities have found their partners among the dazzling stars of Bollywood. These unions have created a stir in the tabloids and brought together two worlds that have long captured the hearts of millions.
1. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and Sharmila Tagore
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, known as Tiger Pataudi, and Sharmila Tagore, an iconic Bollywood actress, shared a love story that captivated the hearts of many. The union of the cricket star and the actress was a match made in heaven, creating a perfect blend of sports and stardom.
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and Sharmila Tagore crossed paths during a cricket match in Delhi, and the encounter sparked an instant connection that blossomed into love. The relationship faced many hurdles due to differences in their background and societal expectations. After prevailing the limitations, they tied the knot on December 27, 1969, and their marriage was a fusion of the sportsmanship and showbiz world together.
Mansoor's cricket career and Sharmila's film career complemented each other as they supported and celebrated each other's successes. Mansoor and Sharmila had three children: Saif Ali Khan, Saba Ali Khan, and Soha Ali Khan. Saif Ali Khan followed in his parent's footsteps and found a successful career as an actor in Bollywood.
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi passed away on September 22, 2011, leaving a legacy of greatness, and Sharmila Tagore is an influential figure in the film industry, advocating for women's rights.
Who are they?
Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi was born in Bhopal, British India, on January 5, 1941, into the prominent Pataudi royal family, known for their rich cricketing legacy. His father was the eighth Nawab of Pataudi, Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi. His father played cricket for England and India, and Mansoor Ali followed in his father’s footsteps. Despite losing his vision in his right eye due to a car accident in 1961 at age 20, Pataudi was revered as one of India's finest captains and most celebrated cricketers, known for his stylish batting and exceptional leadership skills. Pataudi's ability to overcome adversity and perform at the highest level despite the physical challenge earned him immense respect and admiration from teammates and cricket enthusiasts.
Sharmila Tagore was born in British India, on December 8, 1944, into a prominent Bengali family with a rich cultural background. Tagore entered the film industry at a young age and quickly rose to fame, becoming the most sought-after actress in Bollywood due to her grace, elegance, and remarkable acting abilities. She is known for her ability to portray various characters, from innocent and romantic heroines to complex and strong-willed women. She brought depth and sensitivity to her roles, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards, including several Filmfare Awards. Sharmila Tagore's contribution to Indian cinema, grace, and significant influence on the industry has made her an enduring icon.
2. Mohammad Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani
Mohammad Azharuddin, a former Indian captain, and Sangeeta Bijlani, a former Bollywood actress, shared a significant chapter as a married couple. Their union represented a connection between the worlds of cricket and cinema.
In the late 1980s, Mohammad Azharuddin and Sangeeta Bijlani were drawn to each other due to shared interests and mutual admiration, and their relationship developed a deep bond. Their story gained significant media attention due to their popularity in their respective fields.
Shortly before the two married, Azharuddin divorced his first wife, Naureen, in1996 before he married Bijlani in the same year. Their marriage was a star-studded affair held on November 14, 1996, attracting attention from both cricket and film enthusiasts. However, their relationship faced challenges, leading to strains in their marital bond. Despite that, the couple remained together for several years, eventually separating and divorcing in 2010, ending their marriage.
Despite the separation, Azharuddin and Bijlani continued carving their individual paths. Azharuddin remained involved in cricket as a commentator and politician, while Bijlani gradually moved away from the film industry and focused on other pursuits.
Who are they?
Mohammad Azharuddin was born in Hyderabad, India, on February 8, 1963. He is regarded as one of the finest batsmen to have represented the Indian cricket team. Azharuddin succeeded during his cricketing career, known for his elegant batting style and exceptional hand-eye coordination. He captained the Indian team, achieving numerous milestones in Test matches and One-Day Internationals. This made him a celebrated figure in Indian cricket. In 2000, a match-fixing scandal caused his cricketing journey a major setback, and he was banned from cricket by the Board of Control for Cricket in India due to his involvement in alleged corrupt practices. The ban was lifted in 2012 due to insufficient evidence against him. After retiring, Azharuddin ventured into politics, became a Member of Parliament in India, and served as the President of the Hyderabad Cricket Association for a brief period.
Sangeeta Bijlani was born in Mumbai, India, on July 9, 1960, where she succeeded as a model before moving into the film industry. With her beauty, charm, and acting talent, Bijlani became a popular actress in the 1980s and 1990s. In 1980, Bijlani was crowned Miss India, and her win paved her entry into the entertainment industry as a model and actress. She starred in several successful Bollywood films, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Bijlani was known for her on-screen presence, which combined beauty, elegance, and a touch of innocence. Her performances often brought a sense of grace and poise to her characters, making her a sought-after actress during her prime years.
3. Yuvraj Singh and Hazel Keech
Yuvraj Singh, a former Indian cricketer, and Hazel Keech, a British-Mauritian actress and model, had a notable love story that captivated the attention of fans. The love story between Singh and Keech unfolded in 2011 when they met at a mutual friend's party. The couple gradually grew closer and began dating, and the relationship attracted media attention due to their fame and the merging of the cricketing and entertainment worlds.
Singh and Keech’s relationship showcased their compatibility, mutual support, and the blending of their cultural backgrounds, and they often shared glimpses of their personal lives on social media, giving fans a glimpse into their love and bond.
While in Bali, Indonesia, in 2015, Yuvraj Singh planned an intimate proposal for Hazel as the setting sun casts a golden glow. The couple got engaged in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. Yuvraj took Hazel by surprise as he went down on one knee and presented her with a stunning engagement ring. The gesture was a beautiful testament to Yuvraj's romantic spirit and desire to make the moment unforgettable for Hazel.
Their wedding took place in November 2016, a grand and multicultural affair, fusing their diverse background and traditions. The festivities spanned multiple ceremonies and celebrations, incorporating traditional Indian rituals and Hazel's mixed heritage. The couple tied the knot in a Sikh ceremony in Chandigarh, followed by a Hindu ceremony in Goa. The wedding celebrations were filled with music, dance, and the coming together of two families and their loved ones. The events showcased a delightful blend of Punjabi and Mauritian cultures, with delicious food, vibrant decorations, and lively performances.
After their wedding, Yuvraj continued his cricket career for a few more years before announcing his retirement in 2019. Hazel supported her husband's sporting endeavors while pursuing her interests in the entertainment industry. Despite the love story unfolding in the public eye, they maintained a private and low-key personal life.
Who are they?
Yuvraj Singh was born in Chandigarh, India, on December 12, 1981, and became widely known as one of the most talented all-rounders in the history of Indian cricket. He made his international debut for India in October 2000 at a One-Day International match against Kenya. He played a pivotal role in helping India secure the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 tournament championship. Yuvraj represented India in all three formats of cricket: Test matches, ODIs and Twenty20 Internationals.
In 2011, Yuvraj’s cricketing career faced a hurdle due to being diagnosed with mediastinal seminoma, a rare form of cancer. He battled the illness and made a triumphant comeback to international cricket in 2012 before announcing his retirement in June 2019. He represented India in 40 Tests, 304 ODIs, and 58 Twenty20 International, and his contributions on and off the field earned immense respect and admiration from fans and players worldwide.
Hazel Keech was born in Essex, England, on February 28, 1987, and gained recognition as a model who made appearances in music videos and advertisements as a model. She is a British-Mauritian actress who has worked in the Indian film industry, mainly Bollywood. Her striking looks and graceful presence caught the film industry's attention, leading to her acting debut in Bollywood. Her multi-cultural background adds to her unique identity, with a British father and Mauritian mother of Bihari Indian descent.
This diverse heritage brings richness to her personality and contributes to her appeal in the Indian entertainment industry. She has become a recognizable face in Bollywood due to her contributions to Indian cinema. Beyond her acting career, she remains active on social media, sharing glimpses of her personal life and interests.
4. Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma
Virat Kohli, one of the best cricketers in the world, and Anushka Sharma, a Bollywood actress, form one of India's most celebrated power couples. They first crossed paths in 2013 when they shot a television commercial that allowed them to interact and get to know one another. Sparks flew, their connection deepened, and their relationship gained significant media coverage when the couple wed.
Virat and Anushka initially maintained a relatively private approach to their relationship, avoiding excessive media attention and keeping their personal lives away from the spotlight. However, as the relationship progressed, their appearances at public events and social media posts confirmed their relationship with the public.
When they wed on December 11, 2017, their relationship gained significant media coverage when they wed in a private ceremony in Italy. It was an intimate affair attended by close friends and family members.
