Natasa Stankovic on ‘Becoming a Better Version’ After Split from Hardik Pandya

Serbian model, actress, and dancer Natasa Stankovic has emerged as a symbol of resilience and renewal. Her recent separation from Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya has not only been a major talking point in celebrity circles but also a transformative chapter in her own life. After their divorce, Natasa took to social media and interviews to express her feelings, her struggles, and most importantly, her journey toward becoming a “better version” of herself.

The End of a High-Profile Marriage

Natasa and Hardik’s relationship captured the public's attention from the very start. The couple had a whirlwind romance, announcing their engagement in January 2020 and tying the knot in an intimate ceremony during the COVID-19 lockdown in May that year. Soon after, they welcomed their son Agastya Pandya into the world, sharing their joy with millions of followers.

However, by mid-2024, rumors of their split began surfacing online, fueled by Natasa’s conspicuous absence from cricket stadiums and her decision to remove “Pandya” from her Instagram handle. In July 2024, the couple finally confirmed their separation, stating that it was a mutual and amicable decision, with their primary focus being the well-being and upbringing of their son.

Candid Reflections on Healing and Growth

In the months following the separation, Natasa made a conscious decision to not retreat from the public eye but to reclaim her narrative. Through Instagram posts, interviews, and public appearances, she started shedding light on the internal transformation that followed her divorce.

In a powerful post shared in June 2025, she wrote:

“This version of me didn’t come from luck. It came from loss, pain, heartbreak, lessons, and an incredible amount of grace. I’m evolving every day—and unapologetically so.”

This candid declaration resonated deeply with many of her followers, especially women who’ve gone through similar emotional upheavals. Natasa emphasized that pain, while inevitable, was also a catalyst for her becoming mentally stronger, more aware of her worth, and committed to her healing journey.

The Role of Motherhood

Despite the personal turbulence, one constant in Natasa’s life has been her devotion to her son. She frequently shares snippets of her time with Agastya—whether it's playtime, travel, or little lessons in life. In one heartwarming Instagram video, Natasa is seen teaching him the difference between “fact” and “opinion,” a subtle reflection of her values in raising a thoughtful and grounded child.

She recently said in an interview:

“Being a mother to Agastya is the most fulfilling experience. He’s my anchor, my mirror, and my biggest teacher. I learn so much about patience, love, and resilience from him every single day.”

Motherhood, she admits, gave her purpose beyond fame and public recognition. It also pushed her to model strength and self-respect, not only for herself but also to inspire her son to understand the importance of emotional maturity.

Return to Work and Creative Expression

In the months after her split, Natasa didn’t just focus on her personal healing—she also made a strong comeback to the entertainment industry. In April 2025, she announced her role in a new Punjabi music video titled Tere Krke, in collaboration with popular singer Preet Inder.

This marked her first professional project since her separation and was seen by many as her re-entry into showbiz with renewed energy and purpose. A source close to the project revealed that Natasa was deeply involved in the creative process and was eager to choose roles that reflect her authenticity and maturity.

“She’s more selective now. She wants to work on projects that empower her and connect with people emotionally,” said a friend.

Natasa also revealed that she has begun exploring opportunities in production and digital content, hinting at a desire to shape her own creative voice rather than merely act in roles chosen for her.

Public Scrutiny and Personal Strength

As is common with celebrity relationships, Natasa’s split was dissected on social media with rampant speculation and often intrusive commentary. She was unfairly judged, trolled, and even blamed by segments of the internet for the breakdown of the marriage.

Instead of engaging with negativity, Natasa chose grace and silence, letting her actions and maturity speak volumes.

“People will always talk. But I had to tune it out. My focus is on healing, my son, and evolving as a woman,” she said in a recent podcast.

This dignified approach earned her widespread support from fans and women who saw her as a role model for self-respect in the face of public judgment.

Love, Forgiveness, and Future Hopes

Despite everything, Natasa has made it clear that her faith in love remains intact. When asked whether she would be open to love again, she responded:

“Absolutely. I believe in love. But now, I know what I want and what I won’t accept. Love should never cost you your peace.”

She added that she was focusing on “meaningful connections, mutual respect, and emotional compatibility.” Rather than rushing into relationships, she is open to letting life unfold organically.

Forgiveness, too, plays a key role in her healing. While she has not spoken negatively about Hardik, sources close to the family suggest that both parents are working collaboratively to co-parent Agastya in a healthy and supportive environment.

The Takeaway: A Portrait of Empowerment

Natasa Stankovic’s journey is not just about a failed marriage; it’s about the resilience of a woman who chose herself, her child, and her peace over social expectations. It is a reminder that transformation often comes through turbulence, and that personal evolution is not always linear but deeply rewarding.

In a culture that often reduces women to their relationships, Natasa’s story stands out as an example of reclaiming identity, nurturing self-worth, and gracefully stepping into a new chapter.

As she continues her professional journey, her story will likely inspire many others navigating personal trials and seeking hope. In her own words:

“I’m not just surviving—I’m thriving. And this is just the beginning.”