Indian star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has earned widespread praise for his composed response to an unpleasant encounter with a fan outside a New Delhi restaurant on Thursday.

 

The Indian cricketer was leaving the venue with his girlfriend Maheika Sharma after a Christmas dinner when a crowd of fans gathered on the spot, hoping for selfies. Pandya obliged several fans before heading toward his car with security personnel. 

 

However, one frustrated fan, unable to get through the crowd and security, reportedly shouted an insulting remark at him.

 

 

"Bhaad mein jao [Go to hell]," the fan yelled. Despite the provocation, Pandya chose to ignore the comment and continued walking without engaging in a confrontation.

 

A video of the incident went viral on social media, with users commending the all-rounder for his restraint. 

 

On the field, Pandya has been delivering exceptional performances. He played a crucial role in India's recent Twenty20 International series against South Africa, helping secure a 3-1 series victory. In the opening match, he scored 59 runs off just 28 balls, rescuing India from a difficult position.

 

His most explosive performance came during the fifth T20I in Ahmedabad, where he smashed 63 runs from only 25 balls. He reached his half-century in just 16 balls, making it the second-fastest fifty by an Indian in T20I history, behind only Yuvraj Singh's legendary 12-ball record from 2007. Pandya's innings helped India post a commanding total of 231 runs.

 

After his match-winning performance, Pandya celebrated by blowing flying kisses to Sharma from the field, a moment that quickly  spread on social media.