21 July,2026 05:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Raghav Juyal and Shehnaaz Gill. Pics via Instagram
Actor and dancer Raghav Juyal has finally reacted to the viral video showing him escorting Shehnaaz Gill through a crowd of paparazzi after his birthday celebration in Mumbai. The clip quickly took over social media, with fans praising Raghav for shielding the actor from the rush while also fuelling fresh speculation about their relationship.
Speaking to Pinkvilla, Raghav clarified that his actions had nothing to do with dating rumours of him and Shehnaaz Gill and were simply a reflection of the values he was raised with. "I have been brought up by my parents as a man. If there were a girl with me, so many guys would be flocking to her.... I am brought up that I can give an old fat punch to that person. I am brought up like that; I cannot be that city boy, who says, 'I cannot do that.' No, I will protect till my death," he said.
The actor explained that he would have reacted the same way for any woman in a similar situation, adding that protecting those around him comes naturally.
Elaborating on his stance, Raghav said his instinct to protect extends to the women in his family, his friends and anyone he is with. "If there had been any girl with me... my nature is to protect, and I will do that till the end. That is how I was brought up. If there is a sacred feminine energy, there is a sacred masculine energy too. I had to protect her. There's a girl walking by, she has no inhibitions. In that moment, I don't see a 'star image' or anything like that.," he added.
The viral video reignited rumours that Raghav and Shehnaaz are dating, with many fans interpreting his protective gesture as a sign of a deeper relationship. However, the duo has consistently maintained that they are close friends and have repeatedly denied being romantically involved despite making several public appearances together.
The latest clarification is unlikely to put an end to the speculation, but Raghav has made it clear that his actions were driven by instinct rather than romance. For now, both actors continue to remain tight-lipped about their personal lives, choosing not to engage with the dating rumours beyond reiterating that they share a close friendship.
