Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan recently made headlines when he was granted divorce from his wife Aesha Mukerji on grounds of mental cruelty. While it marks the end of his marriage, Shikhar continues to share an endearing bond with his three children who have been a pillar of strength for him.
The aggressive left-hander is one of the most explosive opening batsmen in limited overs cricket for India. Off the field, he is a doting father to his son and two stepdaughters. Dhawan’s divorce has been granted in October 2023 after 11 years of marriage with Aesha.
Dhawan married Melbourne-based Aesha, a former boxer, in 2012. Aesha had two daughters, Rhea and Aliyah, from her previous marriage. After marrying Aesha, Shikhar also adopted both her girls. The couple were later blessed with a baby boy, Zoravar, in 2014.
Who is Zoravar Dhawan? All About Shikhar’s Son Stood by Him in Divorce Case
Zoravar Dhawan is the only biological child of Shikhar Dhawan and his now estranged wife Aesha. He was born in 2014, two years after the couple got married. Shikhar and Aesha chose a culturally blended name for their son.
While ‘Zoravar’ has Persian origins meaning ‘brave king’, his middle name ‘Singh’ represents Shikhar’s Punjabi roots. Zoravar was born in Australia but raised in India since infancy. He is now 8 years old.
Being the son of a famous cricketer, Zoravar has gained media attention despite his young age. He is often seen cheering for his dad from the stands during matches along with his mother. Zoravar bears an uncanny resemblance to Shikhar.
Shikhar shares a special bond with Zoravar and spends quality time with him whenever possible between his cricket commitments. During Shikhar’s recent divorce case, Zoravar stood by his side and provided moral support.
The court granted Shikhar visitation rights to meet Zoravar in India and Australia. Shikhar had accused his wife of keeping Zoravar away from him in Australia for years, causing mental trauma.
Rhea and Aliyah Dhawan – Shikhar’s Stepdaughters Were His Pillar of Strength
While Zoravar is Shikhar’s biological son, the cricketer also lovingly brought up his two stepdaughters Rhea and Aliyah from Aesha’s first marriage. The girls, now in their 20s, share a warm relationship with their stepfather.
Shikhar knew Rhea and Aliyah since he began dating their mother Aesha Mukherjee. Before marrying Aesha, Shikhar ensured the sisters were comfortable with him as their stepdad. He gradually built a caring bond with both girls.
Earlier before Shikhar’s recent divorce proceedings, Rhea and Aliyah stood strong with their stepfather. Pictures on social media show Shikhar having fun times with the sisters, who seem to adore their ‘second dad’.
In 2019 on Rhea’s birthday Shikhar Posted a photo with her and wrote, “Laakh Gulab laga lo aangan mein
Jeevan mein khooshboo toh Beti hi laati hai. Wishing my princess a very happy birthday. Love you lots”
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On Women’s Day in 2017, Shikhar had shared a heartwarming post with Aesha, Rhea and Aliyah, thanking the women in his life. No matter what, his stepdaughters remain close to their loving ‘Papa’ Shikhar.
Support of Family Crucial for Shikhar Dhawan During Divorce and Career Lows
Throughout his outstanding cricket career, Shikhar Dhawan’s family has motivated him through ups and downs. Lately, his unwavering children and their love has been a boon for Shikhar.
Shikhar credits his family for fuelling his success as an elite cricketer. Be it his wife earlier, or now his son and daughters, they have always cheered him on wholeheartedly from the stands during important matches.
Shikhar’s stunning performances at the 2013 Champions Trophy came after seeing his infant son Zoravar in England. “My family’s presence motivates me,” he had then said.
Today, as Shikhar goes through a personal crisis with his divorce coinciding with career uncertainty, his children’s constant support keeps him spirited. Their company is his proudest source of joy.
Shikhar was excluded from India’s 2023 World Cup squad despite a solid ODI record. But the stalwart remains hopeful of a comeback, with his loving family by his side.
For Shikhar, balancing cricket and family life has not been straightforward. Yet he has managed to excel as a world-class batsman and a doting father to his three kids.
Shikhar Dhawan Children – FAQs
1. How many children does Shikhar Dhawan have?
Shikhar Dhawan has three children – one biological son named Zoravar and two adopted daughters named Rhea and Aliyah.
2. Who is Zoravar Dhawan?
Zoravar Dhawan is the biological son of Shikhar Dhawan and his former wife Aesha Mukerji. He was born in 2014. Zoravar, now 9 years old, is often seen supporting his father at cricket matches.
3. Who is Rhea Dhawan?
Rhea Dhawan is the elder daughter of Shikhar Dhawan’s ex-wife Aesha from her previous marriage. Shikhar adopted Rhea after marrying Aesha in 2012. Now in her 20s, Rhea shares a close bond with her stepfather Shikhar.
4. Who is Aliyah Dhawan?
Aliyah Dhawan is the younger daughter of Aesha Mukerji from her first marriage. Shikhar Dhawan adopted Aliyah as well after wedding Aesha. She is very close to her stepdad Shikhar.
5. How many stepdaughters does Shikhar Dhawan have?
Shikhar Dhawan has two stepdaughters – Rhea and Aliyah. Both girls were born to Shikhar’s former wife Aesha from her previous marriage before she wed Shikhar.
6. Does Shikhar Dhawan have custody of his son after divorce?
After divorcing wife Aesha, the court granted Shikhar Dhawan visitation rights to meet his son Zoravar in India and Australia. Custody was not awarded to either parent.
