Ritika Sajdeh and Yuvraj Singh share a heartwarming connection that’s often mistaken for a biological sibling bond. Ritika, married to Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, is known as Yuvraj’s “Rakhi sister,” a term of endearment in Indian culture where a woman ties a ceremonial thread on a man’s wrist, symbolizing a sisterly bond. Their relationship, rooted in professional ties and mutual respect, has grown into a deep, familial friendship. This article explores how their bond began, the playful moments that define it, and how it’s touched fans’ hearts. It’s a story of loyalty, respect, and a unique connection in the world of cricket.
How Their Bond Began
Ritika Sajdeh and Yuvraj Singh’s relationship started in the cricket world. Ritika, a sports manager at Cornerstone Sport & Entertainment, worked with Yuvraj, a star cricketer, as one of her clients. Their frequent meetings for endorsements and events built a strong professional rapport. Over time, this turned into a warm friendship, with Yuvraj calling Ritika his “sister.” Their bond was sealed with the Rakhi tradition, where Ritika ties a ceremonial thread on Yuvraj’s wrist, symbolizing protection and love. This connection surprised many, including Rohit Sharma, whom Yuvraj jokingly warned to “stay away” from Ritika during a 2008 shoot. Their sibling-like bond, born from work and trust, shows how friendships can become family-like in Indian culture.
The Role of Cornerstone
Ritika’s work at Cornerstone, her cousin Bunty Sajdeh’s sports management company, brought her close to cricketers like Yuvraj. As one of the company’s first employees, she managed Yuvraj’s brand deals and events. Their regular interactions laid the foundation for a bond that went beyond work. Yuvraj’s respect for Ritika’s professionalism turned into affection, leading to their Rakhi tradition.
The Rakhi Tradition
The Rakhi ceremony is special for Ritika and Yuvraj. Photos of Ritika tying the Rakhi on Yuvraj’s wrist have gone viral, sparking rumors they were biological siblings. But it’s a chosen bond, not blood. This tradition, celebrated yearly, shows their commitment to each other as honorary siblings, a common and cherished practice in India.
The Famous 2008 Shoot Incident
In 2008, Ritika and Yuvraj’s bond led to a funny moment that’s now part of cricket lore. During an ad shoot, Yuvraj, a senior player, saw his teammate Rohit Sharma and playfully warned him to “not even look” at Ritika, calling her his sister. Rohit, new to the team, was confused and even annoyed, thinking Ritika was off-limits. But a technical glitch during the shoot gave Rohit and Ritika a chance to talk, sparking their friendship. Yuvraj’s protective joke didn’t stop destiny—Ritika and Rohit later fell in love and married in 2015. This story, shared by Rohit on Breakfast with Champions, shows Yuvraj’s playful side and his care for Ritika.
Yuvraj’s Protective Side
Yuvraj’s warning to Rohit wasn’t serious but showed his protective affection for Ritika. As her “Rakhi brother,” he felt a duty to look out for her. This lighthearted moment, though initially awkward for Rohit, became a funny memory that fans love. It highlights Yuvraj’s warm, big-brother vibe.
How It Shaped Ritika and Rohit’s Love Story
Yuvraj’s warning didn’t stop Ritika and Rohit’s connection. After their 2008 meeting, Ritika began managing Rohit’s endorsements, and their friendship grew into love. They dated for six years before marrying. Yuvraj’s role as the “introducer” and his playful protectiveness added a charming twist to their love story.
A Bond That Inspires Fans
Ritika and Yuvraj’s relationship has captured fans’ hearts, especially after viral Rakhi photos led to rumors they were real siblings. Fans love their bond, often sharing pictures and stories on social media. Ritika, now a devoted wife and mother, and Yuvraj, a cricket legend and cancer survivor, show how friendships can become family-like. Their connection, rooted in respect and shared experiences, resonates with Indian values of chosen family. Yuvraj’s support for Ritika, and her presence at his milestones, like his wedding, show a bond that’s lasted over a decade. This relationship reminds fans that love and loyalty go beyond blood, inspiring many to cherish their own friendships.
Clearing the Sibling Rumors
When a photo of Ritika tying Rakhi to Yuvraj went viral in 2020, many thought they were biological siblings. But Yuvraj’s real siblings are his brother Zorawar and half-siblings Victor and Amarjeet Kaur. Ritika’s only sibling is her brother, Kunal. Their Rakhi bond is honorary, a testament to their close friendship.
Their Lasting Friendship
Even after Ritika married Rohit and Yuvraj wed Hazel Keech, their bond remains strong. Ritika supports Yuvraj’s initiatives, like his YouWeCan foundation, and Yuvraj stays close to the Sharma family. Their friendship, built on trust and shared history, continues to inspire fans who admire their loyalty.
