EXCLUSIVE|Sonal Chauhan reacts to going viral for watching MI’s matches at Wankhede: ‘All just a pleasant surprise’-OxBig News Network

“It was completely unexpected,” Sonal shared in a candid conversation with us. “I was just there to watch the match. I didn’t even realize I was on TV until people started sending me screenshots and memes afterwards. The whole thing has just blown up—it’s a pleasant surprise, honestly,” she added.

A self-proclaimed ‘die-hard Mumbai Indians fan’, Sonal was especially thrilled to witness Rohit Sharma’s return to form in person. “I’ve always said Rohit Sharma is one of a kind. There are things he can do on the field that no one else can. Watching him bat is like watching art—he’s so effortless and focused. He’s not trying to be cool, he just is. MI’s last match was magical,” she said, while also praising the chemistry between Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav during the match, calling their performance “magical” and “a treat to watch.”

Despite all the chatter online—some of which includes debates around the male gaze and camera focus on female fans—Sonal brushed aside the objectification narrative. “I don’t think it’s about the cameramen. IPL is watched across the country by families. I think it’s more about what catches the eye of the audience,” she explained, even referencing a viral reel where a man joked about not getting screen time.

While the social media spotlight may have been new, one thing that’s not is the constant fan demand to see her reunite with Emraan Hashmi. Ever since their hit film Jannat (2008), the pairing has had a lasting impact. “I’ve been getting requests for a Jannat sequel for years now—on social media, in my DMs, even when people meet me. I really hope it happens because I know fans would be very happy.”