Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has stirred conversation on social media with a new promotional campaign that references his infamous “sugar daddy” remark from his divorce proceedings with ex-wife Dhanashree Verma. The campaign drew significant attention but was met with sharp criticism from many users who labeled it as “cringe” and “disgusting.”
Chahal’s divorce from Dhanashree made headlines last year when he wore a T-shirt during the final hearing adorned with the phrase “Be Your Own Sugar Daddy.” This phrase quickly gained popularity online. Recently, the cricketer has again captured the public’s interest through a new video collaboration with the micro-drama platform Story TV.
In the promotional video released on Friday, Chahal is introduced as the Chief Story Officer of Story TV. The clip features him narrating a story linked to his past marriage, with a visible slogan reading “Zero Sugar (Daddy) Diet” on the wall behind him. The video has attracted attention and controversy for its provocative content.
Despite Chahal’s intentions, many viewers were unimpressed. Critics on platforms like Reddit condemned the campaign, claiming it exploited his divorce for publicity. One user pointedly remarked that the connection between the advertisement and Chahal’s divorce was distasteful, while others suggested that it reflected poorly on his character.
Reactions varied, with some expressing newfound respect for Dhanashree in light of Chahal’s actions. Comments varied from criticism of Chahal’s choice to use personal experiences for commercial gain to concerns regarding his personal image and self-esteem.
Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma married in Gurugram in December 2020. Their relationship began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Chahal sought dance lessons from Dhanashree. They separated in June 2022, eventually filing for a mutual divorce that was finalized in March 2023.
During the divorce proceedings, speculation arose regarding a potential alimony claim of ₹60 crore from Dhanashree’s side, although her family later denied these rumors. Chahal previously addressed the implications of his T-shirt, stating on Raj Shamani’s YouTube channel that he intended only to convey a message without causing drama.
Following his divorce, Chahal was rumored to be dating RJ Mahvash, with the two often seen together publicly, although both denied these claims. As Chahal continues to navigate his personal and professional life, the reactions to his promotional endeavors highlight the complexities of celebrity culture and public perception.