‘Such a Small, Backward Mindset’, Shikhar Pahariya, Janhvi Kapoor’s Rumoured Boyfriend Hits Back at Troll’s Casteist Comment

Bollywood actor Janhvi Kapoor’s rumored boyfriend, Shikhar Pahariya, recently clapped back at a troll who targeted him over his caste. The incident stemmed from a Diwali post last year, where Shikhar shared adorable pictures featuring Janhvi Kapoor and a couple of dogs. However, a social media user left a comment saying, "Lekin tu toh Dalit hai (But, you're a Dalit).”

Known for usually ignoring negativity, Shikhar didn't hold back this time. On Monday, he took to his Instagram Story to call out the troll, expressing his disappointment that such "backward mindsets" still exist in 2025.

"Diwali is a festival of light, progress, and unity—concepts that are clearly beyond your limited intellect. India's strength has always been in its diversity and inclusivity, something you clearly fail to grasp. Maybe instead of spreading ignorance, you should focus on educating yourself, because right now, the only thing truly 'untouchable' here is your level of thinking," Shikhar wrote.

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Who is Shikhar Pahariya?

Shikhar Pahariya is the grandson of former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde. His mother, Smruti Shinde, is an actress, and his brother, Veer Pahariya, recently made his Bollywood debut in Sky Force, starring Akshay Kumar, Nimrat Kaur, and Sara Ali Khan.  While Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya have never officially confirmed their relationship, they are frequently seen together at parties, film screenings, and family gatherings. Reports suggest that their relationship dates back to before Janhvi's Bollywood debut, though they did experience a brief rough patch.