In a shocking development from the Indian sports world, badminton icons Saina Nehwal and her husband Parupalli Kashyp are reportedly toward divorce after nearly seven years of marriage.
Sources close to the couple have revealed that the two, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in December 2018, have been living separately for the past few months.
Saina Nehwal announces her separation from husband through Instagram, “ 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. 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”.
Saina Nehwal – Unknowing & Interesting Facts
First Indian Woman to Achieve World No.1
While many know about her achievements, few remember that Saina became the first Indian woman badminton player to reach the No.1 ranking in April 2015. She held the top spot despite stiff competition from Chinese and Korean players.
Karate Champion
Before picking up a badminton racquet, Saina trained in karate and earned a brown belt! Her parents later guided her toward badminton due to better opportunities in the sport.
Saina Mother- National-Level Player
Saina’s sporting genes come from her mother, Usha Rani Nehwal, who was a former state-level badminton player in Haryana. Her father, Harvir Singh, supported her journey wholeheartedly despited financial resources.
London Olympics Winner
Saina had the honor of being India’s flag bearer at the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony. She later went on to win a bronze medal at those very Games – India’s first ever Olympic medal in badminton.
Nicknamed – Steffi Saina
As a child, she admired tennis legend Steffi Graf and wanted to become like her. That’s why her family often nicknamed her “Steffi Saina.”
Training Period
Before becoming a star at Pullela Gopichand Academy, Saina trained under several coaches, including SM Arif, who helped refine her early skills. Her father drove her 25 km daily just to get to training.
Andhra Pradesh Government Gifted land
In recognition of her 2012 Olympic bronze medal win, the Andhra Pradesh government gifted her a plot of land in Hyderabad. It was mark of honour for her contribution to Indian sports.
Saina Own Autobiography
Saina released her autobiography titled “Playing to Win” in 2012, which shares her inspiring journey from a small town girl to an Olympic Medalist.
Bollywood Biopic
In 2021, a Bollywood biopic titled “Saina” was released, starring Parineeti Chopra in the lead role. The film showcased her rise in Indian badminton and her