India all-rounder Hardik Pandya visited the famous Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, August 2. He was accompanied by his rumoured girlfriend Mahika Sharma . The two took part in the temple's famous Suprabhatam Seva and offered prayers to Lord Venkateswara . Photos and videos of their visit quickly went viral on social media.
Hardik was seen wearing traditional white clothes with a shaved head and a tilak on his forehead. While neither Hardik nor Mahika has confirmed their relationship, their public appearance together has once again sparked discussions among fans. The visit also comes as Hardik continues his recovery from injury and prepares for his return to international cricket.
Why did Hardik Pandya visit the Tirupati Balaji temple?
Hardik Pandya visited the Tirumala temple to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
He attended the early morning Suprabhatam Seva, one of the temple's most important daily rituals. Hardik followed the temple traditions and offered prayers with full devotion.
Many fans believe the visit marks a spiritual beginning before his expected return to competitive cricket.
Who was with Hardik Pandya at the temple?
Hardik was accompanied by Mahika Sharma, who is widely rumoured to be his girlfriend.
Mahika was also dressed in traditional white clothes during the temple visit. The pair were seen together throughout the prayers, and videos of them inside the temple complex have gone viral online.
However, Hardik and Mahika have not officially confirmed that they are in a relationship.
Why did Hardik Pandya shave his head?
One of the biggest talking points from the visit was Hardik's new look.
He was seen with a completely shaved head, wearing a white kurta-pyjama and a tilak on his forehead. Many devotees choose to shave their heads at the Tirumala temple as an act of faith and gratitude while offering prayers to Lord Venkateswara.
Hardik did not publicly explain the reason for shaving his head.
Why has Hardik Pandya been away from Team India?
Hardik has been out of action because of injuries.
After IPL 2026, he suffered back stiffness and later picked up a thigh muscle injury, which kept him out of the Indian team.
During this break, he has been focusing on his recovery and spending time away from cricket.
When could Hardik Pandya return to Team India?
According to media reports, Hardik has now recovered from his injuries.
He has also completed the return-to-play protocol at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, which is required before an injured player can return to international cricket.
If everything goes according to plan, Hardik could make his comeback in India's next white-ball series. Fans will be hoping to see the star all-rounder back in action soon after completing his rehabilitation.