INVC NEWS
Mumbai — : Actress Esha Gupta has finally addressed long-standing rumors about her alleged relationship with Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya, offering candid remarks about the speculation and distancing herself from the controversy that once surrounded him.
Back in 2019, Hardik Pandya made headlines for controversial remarks during an appearance on the popular talk show “Koffee with Karan” alongside fellow cricketer KL Rahul. The episode sparked outrage across social media, with many calling his comments offensive and disrespectful toward women. The backlash was so intense that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended both players from the ODI series against Australia, forcing them to issue public apologies.
That same year, rumors swirled about a potential romance between Pandya and Esha Gupta, best known for her role in “Jannat 2.” While neither party confirmed the relationship at the time, Gupta was eventually questioned about her connection to Pandya during a public event.
When asked whether she was dating Pandya or considered him a friend, Gupta responded sharply: “Who said they are my friends?” Her direct answer made it clear she had no desire to be associated with the controversy.
The actress also used the opportunity to speak on gender equality and women’s empowerment, addressing the societal tendency to compare women to men. “Women shouldn’t compare themselves to men—we are the best in every way,” she said. Gupta continued, “We go through periods every month, we dance, go to work, raise kids—and still people ask if men are better? Try doing all that before claiming superiority.”
When asked if there was ever a possibility of a romantic relationship with Pandya, Gupta acknowledged that there might have been a chance but said the situation never evolved. “It might have been possible, but it wasn’t meant to be,” she remarked. “By then, Hardik was already facing backlash over his TV comments, and our conversations had stopped.”
Gupta’s bold remarks have reignited interest in the past controversy, while also highlighting her stand on women’s strength and independence—making headlines once again for all the right reasons.
