A World Cup win can change everything. Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur, and their teammates have shattered the barriers of gender discrimination. This victory belongs not just to women, but to a billion Indians. Behind every Smriti Mandhana, perhaps there’s a Palash Muchhal someone who proudly tattoos her initials and jersey number on his hand for the world to see.
India’s World Cup triumph is being compared to the film Chak De! India, with many suggesting a sequel, Chak De 2. In that movie, the character Preeti Sabharwal breaks up with her fiancé after he asks her to compromise her dream she goes on to win the World Cup. Similarly, many in this Indian women’s team have faced rejection simply for being women.
After the victory, captain Harmanpreet Kaur reminded everyone that cricket belongs to all. Among the stories celebrating this triumph is also the romance of Smriti and Palash. On social media, Palash shared a story holding the World Cup trophy, while Smriti stood with her arms wide open and on his arm, a tattoo that reads “SM18,” symbolizing her name and jersey number.
Palash has been a constant support in Smriti’s journey. Reports suggest the couple plans to marry on November 20, Thursday. The Indian women’s team also holds Palash in high regard. The two have been spotted together often, and just before the World Cup, Smriti attended his concert where Palash dedicated a song to his soon-to-be wife. His social media post makes it clear: not just as an Indian, but as a proud partner, his heart overflows with joy at her success.
