Ranchi: Popular Indian actress and social media influencer Anushka Sen has opened up about her special relationship with former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, revealing that she affectionately calls him ‘Mahi Chachu’. The actress, who has more than 37 million followers on Instagram, shared details of their first meeting and the friendship they developed over several years.
During an interview with Mashable India, Anushka recalled meeting Dhoni for the first time around 10 years ago during an advertising shoot. She said their shared connection with Ranchi, Jharkhand, helped them establish an immediate bond.
The actress also revealed that she and Dhoni worked together in 21 advertisements over a period of seven years. Their relationship, she explained, gradually developed beyond a professional association, with Dhoni affectionately calling her ‘Chikki’.
The revelation has attracted attention among cricket and entertainment fans, offering a glimpse into the personal side of the legendary cricketer.
Anushka Sen recalls her first meeting with MS Dhoni
Anushka Sen said she was quite young when she first met Dhoni on an advertising set. She remembered being excited about meeting the former Indian captain, whom she had admired as a cricket fan.
According to the actress, their first conversation took place when she entered Dhoni’s vanity van before the shoot.
She introduced herself by mentioning that she was also from Ranchi, the same hometown as Dhoni. The cricketer was reportedly delighted to discover their common connection.
Anushka explained that this conversation became the starting point of their friendship.
She said their relationship never felt like a conventional actor-and-colleague association. Instead, it developed into a warm bond in which she called him Mahi Chachu and he addressed her as Chikki.
The actress recalled that Dhoni would enter the shooting set and greet her by her nickname.
21 advertisements together over seven years
One of the interesting revelations from Anushka’s interview was the number of advertising projects she completed with Dhoni.
She disclosed that they worked together in 21 advertisements over seven years.
Their repeated collaborations gave them opportunities to spend time together beyond the cameras and develop a familiar relationship.
Anushka said the bond was not limited to professional interactions. The friendly atmosphere on the sets and Dhoni’s approachable nature made the experience memorable for her.
The actress also spoke about how comfortable she felt working alongside the former Indian captain.
Their association has continued to attract attention whenever the two appear together in advertisements or share pictures on social media.
Anushka Sen has more than 37 million Instagram followers
Anushka Sen has established herself as a popular face in Indian television, films and digital entertainment.
With more than 37 million Instagram followers, she enjoys a substantial social media presence and connects with audiences across different age groups.
She first gained widespread recognition through television appearances, particularly her performances in shows such as ‘Baal Veer’ and ‘Jhansi Ki Rani’.
Over the years, she has expanded her career into films, web projects and brand endorsements.
Her association with Dhoni has also been an interesting part of her professional journey, bringing together two personalities from different entertainment and sporting backgrounds who share a connection with Ranchi.
Dhoni’s IPL 2027 participation remains uncertain
Meanwhile, attention has also turned towards Dhoni’s future in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend has not yet confirmed whether he will return for the 2027 season.
Dhoni missed the entire 2026 IPL season because of a calf injury, raising questions about his availability for the next edition.
Speaking at an event in Bengaluru, Dhoni said he would undergo medical tests to assess his physical condition before deciding whether he could play another season.
He indicated that the medical team would have to evaluate his fitness and provide a report before he made a final decision, potentially by December.
In a humorous reference to his age and fitness, Dhoni compared himself to an old vintage vehicle that needed proper maintenance to continue running.
He also remarked that the responsibility was now on the doctors to ensure that he remained fit enough to play another season.
His comments have kept CSK supporters interested in his IPL future, although no final announcement has been made.
CSK make important changes ahead of IPL 2027 auction
Chennai Super Kings have also been preparing for the upcoming IPL 2027 mini-auction.
The five-time champions recently completed a significant trade with SunRisers Hyderabad, exchanging Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis for Liam Livingstone and Jack Edwards.
The move is part of the franchise’s preparations for the next season as it looks to strengthen its squad.
Dhoni’s participation, however, remains a separate question and will depend on his fitness assessment.
For CSK supporters, his possible return would be an important development, particularly given his long association with the franchise.
Anushka and Dhoni’s bond continues to attract attention
Anushka Sen’s latest revelation has once again highlighted the friendly relationship she shares with Dhoni.
From their first meeting through a common connection with Ranchi to working together in 21 advertisements, their association has developed into a special bond.
While Anushka continues to expand her career in the entertainment industry, Dhoni remains an influential figure in Indian cricket.
Their ‘Mahi Chachu’ and ‘Chikki’ relationship offers fans a refreshing glimpse of the personal connections that can develop beyond professional collaborations.