27 October,2026 04:23 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya. Pic via Instagram
Actor Janhvi Kapoor has opened up about how her boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya, supported her following the death of her mother, veteran actor Sridevi, in 2018. In an upcoming appearance on Karan Johar's Koffee With Karan season 9, Janhvi revealed that Shikhar returned to Mumbai from London to be around her during the difficult period, even though they were not officially dating at the time.
Recalling the gesture, Janhvi shared that Shikhar was studying in London when he decided to take half a semester off and return home. He was initially staying with his father in South Mumbai but later moved to a friend's house in Juhu for a month so he could remain close to Janhvi. "Not that I was seeing him every day, but later on I just found out that he was like, âNo, in case she needs me, I just want to be around,'" she said.
Sridevi died in February 2018, shortly before Janhvi made her Bollywood debut with Dhadak later that year. The actor's revelation offers a glimpse into the support she received from Shikhar during a deeply personal period in her life.
Janhvi's account highlights how Shikhar chose to be physically present in Mumbai in case she needed him, without expecting to spend every day together. His decision to return from London and stay nearby came at a time when the actor was coping with the loss of her mother and preparing to enter the film industry.
The couple's relationship has attracted public attention over the years, with the two frequently spotted together at temple visits, dinner outings and industry events. Their bond reportedly dates back to their childhood, although rumours of a romantic relationship first surfaced in 2016.
Janhvi has also offered subtle public acknowledgements of their relationship. In 2024, she wore a customised necklace bearing the nickname "Shiku" at the screening of Maidaan, drawing attention to her equation with Shikhar.
While the couple has not made a formal announcement detailing their relationship, their public appearances and Janhvi's multiple gestures have fuelled interest in their romance.
Shikhar, the grandson of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, has largely maintained a presence outside the film industry. Janhvi, meanwhile, continues to balance her acting career with public attention surrounding her personal life.
Her latest revelation on Koffee With Karan season 9 sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of their relationship, recalling a time when Shikhar chose to stay close to her during one of the most difficult periods of her life.
