Indian cricketer Tilak Varma recently warmed hearts by sharing a touching birthday message for Ritika Sajdeh, the wife of Indian captain Rohit Sharma, as she celebrated her 37th birthday on Saturday, December 21. The post not only highlighted their close relationship but also reflected the deep bond Tilak shared with the Sharma family since joining the Mumbai Indians.
A Special Bond with the Sharma Family
Tilak Varma’s journey with the Mumbai Indians has been transformative for his cricketing career, but it has also introduced him to a family-like relationship with Rohit Sharma and his wife, Ritika Sajdeh. Tilak affectionately refers to Ritika as “Bhabhi” (sister-in-law) and frequently shares moments with the Sharma family off the field.
During the IPL seasons, Tilak is often seen spending time with Rohit and Ritika’s daughter, Samaira, further strengthening their bond. This connection extends beyond cricket, with Tilak viewing the Sharmas as mentors and guiding figures in his young career.
The ‘Samaira Celebration’ – A Tribute to Family
One of the most endearing aspects of Tilak Varma’s bond with the Sharma family is his special ‘Samaira celebration,’ dedicated to Rohit and Ritika’s daughter. The celebration, characterized by Tilak’s gesture of rocking a baby after a significant performance, has become a trademark.
Tilak Varma first performed this celebration after scoring his maiden T20I half-century against the West Indies in 2023. His public acknowledgment of Samaira’s influence on his cricketing journey highlights how personal relationships often inspire professional milestones.
A Heartfelt Birthday Message for Ritika
To commemorate Ritika’s birthday, Tilak Varma took to Instagram to pen a warm and heartfelt message. His post read:
“To the most loving and pure-hearted @ritssajdeh Bhabhi, Happy Birthday! You’re the coolest. May your day be as beautiful as your soul.”
This public display of affection not only emphasized the deep familial bond between Tilak and Ritika but also showcased the positive influence Ritika has had on Tilak’s personal and professional life.
Rising Star on the Field
While Tilak Varma’s connections with the Sharma family have flourished, his cricketing journey continues to ascend. Tilak recently captained Hyderabad in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he delivered a standout performance with the bat.
In six innings, Tilak scored an impressive 327 runs, including two fifties and a remarkable unbeaten 151 off 67 balls against Meghalaya. This inning, highlighted by 14 boundaries and 10 sixes, demonstrated Tilak’s explosive batting prowess and leadership qualities.
Despite Tilak’s brilliance, Hyderabad fell short in the group stages, finishing fifth in Group A with only three wins from seven matches, missing out on the next round. However, Tilak’s performance left a lasting impression, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s emerging talents.
A Bright Future Ahead
Tilak Varma’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship and personal relationships in shaping a cricketer’s career. His bond with Rohit Sharma’s family has not only provided him with emotional support but also contributed to his growth on the cricket field.
As Tilak continues to shine in domestic and international cricket, his connection with the Sharma family remains a reminder of how cricket often extends beyond the boundary ropes, fostering lifelong relationships and cherished memories.
