Smriti Mandhana Birthday Special: Runs, Records And A Romance That’s Still Hitting All the Right Notes

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As Smriti Mandhana celebrates her 29th birthday, most headlines will, understandably, talk about cricket. The centuries, the milestones, the records. And rightly so-she's now the first Indian woman to score hundreds in all three formats, the fastest to reach 4,000 ODI runs, and has the most runs in a single calendar year in women's T20Is. She's done it all while wearing jersey number 18, a number long associated with Virat Kohli, but now unmistakably hers too, especially being her birthdate.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/smriti_mandhana

But behind the statistics, there's another story that's been unfolding-less visible, but no less significant. A relationship that's grown over time, quietly but surely, with music composer and filmmaker Palash Muchhal. And now, at 29, it seems Smriti has found a rhythm off the field that matches her calm, steady presence on it.

When Cricket Met Composition: The Beginning

The relationship between Smriti and Palash reportedly began in 2019, and while neither made any official statements early on, fans had begun to notice. Their social media interactions and occasional appearances together sparked curiosity, but it wasn't until July 2024 that the relationship was acknowledged publicly.

According to sources close to the couple, their love story began with a moment straight out of a Bollywood film-a custom-composed song by Palash as a proposal. In a private gathering among close friends, Palash surprised Smriti by playing a piano piece he'd written for her. The lyrics reportedly mirrored her journey-humble, focused, and unwavering making the gesture not just romantic, but deeply personal. Friends say Smriti was moved to tears, and the proposal sealed what had already been a strong bond.

A Quiet Relationship Made Public with Cake And A Hashtag

After nearly five years of keeping their relationship private, Smriti and Palash made their bond public on July 7, 2024, with a simple but meaningful gesture-a cake-cutting ceremony posted on Instagram. The caption was minimal: "5 and a heart emoji", accompanied by the hashtag #5, signifying their fifth anniversary. Smriti responded in the comments with heart emojis, making it clear that this was more than a friendly gesture, it was a quiet confirmation of their relationship.

The moment went viral almost instantly. Fans from both cricket and Bollywood circles celebrated it as the official unveiling of one of India's most endearing modern couples.

Palash Muchhal: The Creative Constant

Palash, known for composing hits like "Tu Hi Hai Aashiqui" and "Party Toh Banti Hai" has also acted in films like 'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey' and directed meaningful cinema like 'Kaam Chalu Hai' in 2024. Despite his packed schedule, he's often seen supporting Smriti at matches including high-stakes WPL games.

His Instagram timeline, although curated conservatively, reflects key moments of their relationship. On Smriti's 28th birthday (July 18, 2024), he posted a rare personal message: "You mean everything to me." The post was widely shared, adding another layer of warmth to their public image.

Smriti's Record-Breaking Journey

On the field, Smriti continues to build an iconic legacy. She holds the record for the most 50+ scores in Women's T20Is, has crossed 4,000 runs in ODIs faster than any Indian woman, and in 2025, she became the first Indian woman to score centuries in all three formats.

In the WPL, she led RCB to their maiden title win and is now among the highest-paid players in women's cricket. At one of the celebratory moments, Palash was seen posing with her and the trophy-a moment that was both proud, and deeply symbolic.

The Power Couple's Financial Footing

Together, Smriti and Palash represent both cultural and financial success. Palash's estimated net worth lies between ₹20-41 crore, while Smriti's stands at ₹33.29 crore. Their combined wealth exceeds ₹70 crore, underscoring not just their individual achievements, but also their strong standing as a couple admired in both sports and entertainment circles.

A Modern Romance That Isn't Trying Too Hard

As Smriti Mandhana turns 29, she's not just at a professional high-she's also clearly in a personal chapter that feels strong and steady. Her journey with Palash Muchhal reflects how modern relationships don't always need a spotlight to thrive. Their story has unfolded gradually, grounded in shared values, individual success, and mutual support.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/palash_muchhal

Whether it's a birthday post, a music composition, or simply showing up for each other-Smriti and Palash continue to write a relationship story that doesn't scream for attention, but earns it.