Janhvi Kapoor’s appearance at sister Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception in a Manish Malhotra ensemble drew widespread admiration, but it was a small detail in her mehendi that quickly became the centre of online discussion. Fans noticed that the actor had incorporated the name "Shikhu" in Hindi into her henna, a gesture widely seen as a tribute to her rumoured boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya.
On July 8, Janhvi posted a collection of photographs from the wedding festivities on Instagram, offering followers a closer view of her understated yet intricately designed mehendi. Social media users soon spotted "Shikhu" written in Hindi within the design, turning the subtle detail into one of the reception's biggest talking points.
Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya have long been the subject of dating speculation. Reports have suggested that the pair began seeing each other in 2016 before reportedly going their separate ways after Janhvi made her Bollywood debut in 2018.
Rumours of a reconciliation gathered momentum in 2023 when the two were repeatedly seen together. Since then, they have often been photographed at public events, temple visits and other outings, further fuelling speculation about their relationship.
The actor has also hinted at their bond during public appearances, where she has affectionately referred to Shikhar as "Shikhu." Their frequent public appearances together and interactions on social media have continued to keep fans engaged with the ongoing rumours surrounding their relationship.
Earlier this year, reports suggested that Janhvi and Shikhar were preparing to tie the knot. Those claims, however, were dismissed by Janhvi’s father, producer Boney Kapoor.
Professionally, Janhvi was most recently seen in Peddi, where the depiction of her character drew criticism from a section of viewers who felt it was hypersexualised. In the wake of the backlash, director Buchi Babu Sana apologised to audiences and implemented changes to the film.
Janhvi is next set to appear in Lag Jaa Gale alongside Tiger Shroff and Lakshya. The film is scheduled to hit theatres in May next year.
