In an Instagram post late Sunday night, Padma Bhushan and Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal shared the news that she and husband Parupalli Kashyap have decided to part ways after nearly seven years of marriage.
Their Journey Together
Both players emerged from Pullela Gopichand Academy in Hyderabad, forming a deep bond that extended from practice courts to marriage in December 2018.
A former world No. 1 and India’s first Olympic badminton medallist (bronze in 2012), Saina Nehwal has a collection of international titles and prestigious accolades, including the Arjuna, Khel Ratna, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan awards while Kashyap reached world No. 6, earned a Commonwealth Games gold in 2014, and was the first Indian man to reach the Olympic quarterfinals in badminton in 2012.
After retiring in early 2024, Kashyap transitioned into coaching, often guiding Saina in domestic tournaments—and even during her 2019 National Championships win against PV Sindhu.
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The Wedding and Married Life
After over a decade together, they married on December 14, 2018, in a low‑key ceremony at Saina’s house in Hyderabad, attended by only about 40 close guests.
The pre-wedding “jeelakarra bellam” ritual, rooted in Telugu tradition, emphasized cultural blending between Saina’s Haryana roots and Kashyap’s Hyderabad upbringing.
The couple built a home in Gachibowli, but during the pandemic, moved in stages—from a friend’s residence to a hotel apartment before settling mid‑2021.
Sharing Accolades
Kashyap credits Saina’s drive for reigniting his passion, especially during his comeback post-injury, when he began advising and later coaching her.
His shift from sparring partner to coach saw Saina Nehwal achieve major successes: CBAs, an Asian Games bronze, and defending her position in national championships.
The Separation
Their shared profession allowed mutual empathy but also brought challenges. Intense schedules meant dates were rare; when together, they often traveled in groups rather than enjoying traditional dating experiences.
Both have described how their respective ambitions—Saina’s drive to move training bases for personalized coaching, Kashyap’s recovery from injuries—impacted their relationship. Kashyap noted her move to Bangalore in 2014 led to a tough long-distance phase.
Both appear focused on individual growth. Saina’s athletic future remains uncertain, while Kashyap’s coaching prospects could extend beyond her.
