Bollywood actor Janhvi Kapoor has revealed that Shikhar Pahariya took a break from his studies in London and returned to Mumbai to support her following the death of her mother, legendary actor Sridevi, in February 2018.
During an appearance on the ninth season of Koffee With Karan, Janhvi recalled how Shikhar made arrangements to stay close to her during one of the most difficult periods of her life, despite the two not being officially in a relationship at the time.
The actor, who appeared on the show alongside her Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari co-star Varun Dhawan, spoke about the emotional support she received from Shikhar following her mother's sudden demise.
Shikhar took a break from studies
Janhvi revealed that Shikhar was studying in London when Sridevi passed away. He subsequently took half a semester off from his studies and returned to Mumbai to be available for her. Although he initially stayed with his father in South Mumbai, Shikhar later moved to a friend's residence in Juhu, closer to Janhvi's home.
According to the actor, she discovered only later that he had made the arrangement specifically to remain nearby in case she needed his support. The gesture was particularly meaningful because they were not officially dating at the time. During the conversation, filmmaker and show host Karan Johar also recalled witnessing Shikhar's support for Janhvi after Sridevi's death.
Janhvi opens up about their bond
Janhvi and Shikhar have known each other since their teenage years and have maintained a close relationship over the years. The actor has previously described Shikhar as an important source of emotional support, saying their lives and aspirations have remained closely connected since they were young.
In an earlier interview, Janhvi said Shikhar had been part of her life since she was around 15 or 16 years old. She spoke about how they had supported each other's ambitions and grown together through different phases of their lives.
Although the two have frequently appeared together at public events, family celebrations and religious gatherings, they have generally avoided formally discussing the status of their relationship. Their appearances together have nevertheless attracted considerable attention, with fans often speculating about their personal lives.
Sridevi's death in 2018
Sridevi, one of Indian cinema's most celebrated actors, died in Dubai on February 24, 2018, at the age of 54. Her death came shortly before Janhvi made her Bollywood debut with Dhadak, which was released later that year.
Janhvi has spoken on several occasions about the impact of losing her mother at a young age and the challenges of coping with the tragedy while beginning her acting career. Her latest remarks offered a more personal account of the support she received during that period, particularly from Shikhar.
Koffee With Karan appearance
Janhvi's revelations form part of her appearance on Koffee With Karan Season 9, hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar. The episode also features Varun Dhawan, with whom she worked in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. The two actors discuss their personal experiences, professional relationships and interactions with Johar during the conversation.
Janhvi's account of Shikhar's decision to temporarily leave his studies and relocate within Mumbai has drawn attention to their longstanding relationship and the role he played in supporting her following her mother's death.