Shikhar Dhawan’s First Wife Ayesha Mukherjee: Inside Their Marriage, Divorce, and Her Life After Separation

New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan is back in the spotlight after finding love again following the end of his first marriage with Ayesha Mukherjee. For months, rumours were spread about his relationship with Sophie Shine, especially after the Irish woman was seen accompanying him at several matches. 

In January 2026, the couple got engaged and tied the knot a month later in February. As Shikhar begins this new chapter with Sophie, here’s a closer look at the story of his first marriage and the woman he was previously married to.

Who is Ayesha Mukherjee?

Ayesha Mukherjee is of Anglo-Indian heritage. She was born in West Bengal to her father, Amitava Mukherjee, a Bengali Indian, and her mother, Althea Mukherjee, who is of British descent. After her birth, the family moved to Australia, where Ayesha was raised and went on to complete her education. As of March 2026, Ayesha Mukherjee is 50 years old.

Ayesha developed a strong interest in sports. Her early exposure led her to explore cricket, football, and several other popular games. However, by profession, Ayesha Mukherjee is an experienced Kickboxer, fitness influencer, and trainer as well.

Who is Ayesha Mukherjee's first husband?

Before marrying Shikhar Dhawan, Ayesha Mukherjee was in a previous marriage. Her first husband was an Australia-based businessman, and the couple was married for around 10 years before getting divorced from that marriage. She has two daughters, Aliyah and Rhea.

How long had Shikhar Dhawan and Ayesha Mukherjee been married?

Shikhar Dhawan and Ayesha Mukherjee got engaged in 2009, but they decided to marry after Dhawan had firmly established himself as a cricketer. The couple tied the knot on 30 October 2012 and welcomed their son in 2014.

Their relationship initially faced resistance from Dhawan’s father, who was reportedly unhappy about his son marrying someone nearly 10 years older. However, his mother supported the relationship from the beginning. Dhawan first connected with Ayesha through Facebook after being introduced by their mutual friend, cricketer Harbhajan Singh. What began as online conversations gradually turned into a serious relationship after they met in person and fell in love.

Why Did Shikhar Dhawan and Ayesha Mukherjee Divorce?

Trouble in their marriage started in 2020, when reports suggested the couple was heading for separation due to irreconcilable differences. In 2021, Ayesha publicly confirmed the divorce on Instagram.

According to Bar and Bench reports, Dhawan alleged that Ayesha demanded 99% ownership of three properties he had purchased in Australia and also requested co-ownership of his other assets.

Following their separation, Ayesha Mukherjee reportedly moved back to Australia with their son, Zoravar, and did not let Shikhar meet him.

After 11 years of marriage, the couple officially ended their relationship. On 5 October 2023, a Delhi court granted a divorce to Shikhar Dhawan on the grounds of “mental cruelty.” The court directed Ayesha to bring their son to India to facilitate visitation rights and also allowed Dhawan to stay connected with Zoravar Dhawan through video calls.

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