Watch: Mahieka Sharma lashes out at media over Hardik Pandya’s son after MI vs KKR IPL 2026 match

Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium hosted an exciting Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match between Hardik Pandya’s Mumbai Indians and Ajinkya Rahane’s Kolkata Knight Riders. While the match on the field drew attention, an off-field moment also grabbed the spotlight, featuring Hardik Pandya’s girlfriend, model Mahieka Sharma, and his young son, Agastya.

Mahieka Sharma won hearts online after a video of her protecting Agastya from paparazzi went viral. The incident took place at the MI vs KKR match on Sunday, March 29, when media photographers surrounded them. Mahieka’s quick and protective reaction was caught on camera and quickly spread across social media.

During the match, Mahieka was seen cheering for Hardik from the stands, accompanied by Agastya. After the game, she was photographed leaving the stadium hand-in-hand with her stepson. As photographers tried to take pictures, Mahieka shielded Agastya from the camera flashes, showing her protective side.

Watch the special video here:

Mahieka Sharma criticises media coverage involving Agastya Pandya

The MI allrounder's girlfriend was seen becoming protective, shielding Agastya from the camera flashes.

In one video, she is holding Agastya’s hand as they walk towards their car. When photographers approach, she firmly asks them to make way, showing she is with him. She can be heard saying, “Thoda side please, Agastya ke saath hoon.”

In another clip, Mahieka shields Agastya from the flashing cameras and politely asks the photographers not to use bright lights, as it was bothering him. She checks on Agastya, asking, “You okay?” and then tells the photographers, “No lights please, sir, disturb ho raha hai usko.”

In a separate video, she is also heard saying, “Please rasta dijiye,” asking for space as they move.

Notably, Agastya is the son of Hardik Pandya and his ex-wife, actor Natasa Stankovic. The couple married in 2020 but separated in 2024. Their divorce was finalized the same year, and they continue to co-parent Agastya.

See also -Hardik Pandya Gifts India's first Mercedes EV to his girlfriend amid IPL 2026

Incident during the MI vs KKR match sparks debate

The incident involving Mahieka Sharma and young Agastya during the Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders match has sparked widespread discussion online. Fans and social media users praised Hardik Pandya’s girlfriend's protective behaviour, highlighting her efforts to shield the child from camera flashes and maintain his comfort. At the same time, some debated the role of paparazzi at public sporting events and whether stricter guidelines are needed to protect the children of celebrities. The clips of Mahieka asking photographers to give way and avoid bright lights quickly went viral, turning the off-field moment into a topic of public conversation.

Fans react to controversy surrounding the post-match moment

The videos went viral almost instantly, with internet users deeply moved by Mahieka’s instinctive response. Many praised her for being caring and protective towards Agastya, calling her actions “heartwarming” and “thoughtful.” Some fans highlighted the importance of respecting children’s privacy, especially in public spaces. At the same time, a few debated the role of paparazzi at such events, questioning whether photographers should exercise more caution around young children. Overall, the clips sparked widespread discussion, with social media users sharing support for Mahieka and raising awareness about child safety in the public eye.

Here is how the netizens reacted: