Smriti Mandhana seen in public for the first time after calling off wedding; social media erupts - Watch

Smriti Mandhana made her first public appearance on Wednesday after confirming that her wedding with Palash Muchhal had been called off. The Indian batting star was seen at the airport in the afternoon, a sight fans had been waiting for since her announcement. Smriti kept her look understated, wearing a mask and opting for a casual outfit. She chose not to engage with the photographers present at the terminal. Without responding to questions or posing for pictures, she quietly moved to her car and drove away. The appearance came at the end of a particularly difficult few weeks for her.

A few days earlier, her brother Shravan Mandhana had offered a reassuring update to supporters.

He posted a picture on Instagram showing Smriti batting in the nets, an indication that she had slowly resumed training and was getting back into her normal rhythm. Smriti was originally set to marry Palash Muchhal on 23 November. The plans were halted when her father, Shriniwas Mandhana, was hospitalised due to a heart-related issue. With the ceremony postponed, speculation began to grow online, especially since both families kept complete silence during the period.

On Sunday, Smriti finally addressed the situation. In a detailed message on social media, she confirmed that the wedding had been cancelled and asked people not to intrude on the privacy of either family. She wrote that although she is a private person, she felt it necessary to clarify that the marriage would not go ahead. She urged everyone to respect boundaries and allow both sides the space to move forward. Smriti also emphasised her dedication to cricket, saying her purpose has always been to represent India and win trophies for the country, and that her focus will remain only on the game. Palash Muchhal also posted a note on Instagram, saying he was moving on from the relationship and cautioning people against spreading misinformation.