'Choosing Peace, Healing': Saina Nehwal, Parupali Kashyap Announce Separation

Badminton Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal announced her separation from her husband, Parupalli Kashyap, on July 13. She wrote in an Instagram story, "Life takes us in different directions sometimes. After much thought and consideration, Kashyap Parupalli and I have decided to part ways." They have been married for over seven years. Parupalli has not announced anything about the separation from his side. 

Saina Nehwal, Parupalli Kashyap relationship timeline

Nehwal and Parupalli met at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy in Hyderabad, where they trained together. Nehwal, originally from Haryana, moved to Hyderabad at a young age. Parupalli belongs to Andhra Pradesh and grew up in Hyderabad. Both athletes have made headlines for their outstanding performances in the sport. 

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At the London Olympics 2012, Nehwal won bronze in the women's singles event, becoming the second-ever Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. She became World No. 1 in 2015. Meanwhile, Parupalli became the first male player from India to reach the quarter-finals of men's singles at the 2012 Games. He is presently a coach at the Gopichand Academy.

Nehwal and Parupalli got married in a private ceremony in 2018. Nehwal wrote about their separation on Instagram. "We're choosing peace, growth, and healing - for ourselves and each other," she said. "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," Nehwal added.

Saina Nehwal is the only Indian to have won at least one medal in every BWF major individual event. She has won the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, and Arjuna awards. In 2024, Saina revealed that she is battling arthritis and will have to decide on her badminton future.

Nehwal entered politics in 2020, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. Her sister, Abu Chandranshu Nehwal, also joined the party. Her eponymous biopic starring Parineeti Chopra was released in 2021.