Natasa’s relationship with Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya became public in early 2020 when the couple announced their engagement on social media. Their engagement, which took place on a yacht in Dubai, was a surprise to many, as the couple had managed to keep their relationship largely under wraps until that point. The announcement was accompanied by a video and photos of Hardik proposing to Natasa, which quickly went viral. The couple tied the knot in May 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, in a private ceremony that was attended by only close family members. Shortly after their wedding, they announced that they were expecting their first child. Their son, Agastya, was born in July 2020, adding another chapter to their high-profile relationship. Natasa and Hardik’s relationship was often in the public eye, with the couple sharing glimpses of their life together on social media. They were seen as one of the most glamorous and beloved couples in the sports and entertainment industry, often making appearances together at events and sharing their travel adventures with fans. In 2024, rumors of trouble in paradise began to circulate as Natasa and Hardik were seen less frequently together in public and on social media. Speculation about their relationship status grew when Natasa made a significant change to her social media profiles, dropping Pandya from her name and reverting to her maiden name, Stankovic. This move was seen by many as an indication that the couple had parted ways, although neither Natasa nor Hardik made any public statements about their relationship at the time. The separation was confirmed later when sources close to the couple revealed that they had decided to part ways amicably. Despite the split, both Natasa and Hardik have reportedly remained committed to co-parenting their son, Agastya, and maintaining a cordial relationship for his sake. The couple’s separation marked the end of a relationship that had captivated fans and the media alike, with many expressing their surprise and disappointment at the news. Natasa’s recent social media post about “getting a new name” came shortly after the news of her separation from Hardik Pandya became public. The post, shared on her Instagram account, featured a photo of Natasa looking serene and reflective, accompanied by a caption that read, “Sometimes getting a new name is the first step to finding yourself again.” The post immediately garnered attention, with many interpreting it as a reflection of her emotional journey following the separation. The phrase “getting a new name” resonated with fans and followers, who speculated that it symbolized a fresh start for Natasa as she navigates life post-separation. For many women, changing their name after marriage is a deeply personal decision, and reverting to their maiden name can be a powerful statement of reclaiming their identity.
Natasa Stankovic, the Serbian actress and model who found fame in India through her work in Bollywood and her high-profile marriage to Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya
In the context of Natasa’s life, the decision to drop the Pandya surname and return to Stankovic could be seen as an effort to re-establish her individuality and independence. The post also suggests a journey of self-discovery, as she embarks on a new chapter in her life without the association of her married name. The concept of changing one’s name after marriage is steeped in tradition and carries significant cultural and social implications. In many cultures, including India, it is customary for women to take their husband’s surname after marriage. This practice, however, has been increasingly questioned in modern times, with many women choosing to retain their maiden names or hyphenate their surnames to reflect both their personal and marital identities. Name changes can be symbolic of a new phase in life, representing the merging of identities in marriage. Conversely, reverting to a maiden name after a separation or divorce can signify a return to one’s roots and a reclaiming of the self. For Natasa, this change appears to be more than just a formal alteration—it is a statement of her intent to rediscover herself and her identity outside of her marriage to Hardik Pandya. In her post, Natasa hints at the complexities of this decision, acknowledging that it is a significant step in her personal journey. The response to her post was overwhelmingly supportive, with many fans and followers praising her for her strength and wishing her well as she moves forward. Separation and divorce are often accompanied by a range of emotional and psychological challenges. For Natasa, who has lived much of her life in the public eye, the process of dealing with the end of her marriage is likely compounded by the intense media scrutiny and public interest in her personal life. The decision to publicly acknowledge her separation and the subsequent name change could be seen as an act of empowerment. By taking control of the narrative and openly sharing her journey, Natasa is setting a powerful example for others who may be going through similar experiences. It also reflects a broader cultural shift, where women are increasingly asserting their autonomy and making choices that prioritize their well-being and personal growth. In the world of celebrity, where image and perception are often carefully curated, Natasa’s candid approach to her separation and name change is refreshing. It underscores the importance of authenticity and self-expression, even in the face of public scrutiny. As Natasa embarks on this new chapter of her life, the question on everyone’s mind is: What’s next for her? Given her successful career in the Indian entertainment industry, it is likely that Natasa will continue to pursue opportunities in Bollywood and modeling. Her unique background and international appeal have always set her apart, and she has the potential to further establish herself as a versatile actress and model. There is also speculation that Natasa may explore opportunities in the digital space, leveraging her social media presence to connect with her fans and share her journey more intimately. With the rise of influencer culture, many celebrities are using platforms like Instagram and YouTube to create content that reflects their personal interests and experiences.
