Indian cricket’s rising star Rajat Patidar has become a household name, especially after leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their maiden IPL title in 2025. The 32-year-old middle-order batter from Indore not only silenced doubters with his calm leadership but also ended RCB’s long trophy drought. As we step into 2026, fans are curious about the man behind the helmet – his private personal life, rumoured wife, massive earnings, and journey from a business family to IPL glory. While Rajat keeps things low-key off the field, glimpses from reports and social media paint a picture of dedication, sacrifice, and quiet romance.
Rajat Patidar’s Early Life: From Indore Business Family to Cricket Passion
Born on June 1, 1993, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Rajat Manohar Patidar grew up in a traditional business household involved in timber trade. His father, Manohar Patidar, runs the family enterprise, and initially hoped Rajat would join the business after his studies. But young Rajat had other dreams – he fell in love with cricket at age 8, joining a local club and prioritising the bat over books.
Despite academic struggles, his family eventually supported his passion. Rajat attended New Digamber Public School and graduated from Government Commerce College in Indore. He has a sister, Nidhi Patidar, and credits his parents for instilling discipline. This grounded upbringing explains his humble demeanour, even after captaining stars like Virat Kohli.
Who is Rajat Patidar’s wife?
Rajat is married, if the rumours are accurate. The cricket player released several pictures of himself with a girl that showed his engagement, which led people to believe that he was married, even though he prefers to keep his private life private, according to reports. Rajat was getting married in May 2022 because RCB had not chosen him for the IPL that year. According to reports, he was prepared to wed a girl from Ratlam, and a hotel in Indore had already been reserved for a private ceremony. But Rajat’s IPL comeback was due to Luvnith Sisodia’s injury, which caused him to put off getting married.
Explosive Cricket Journey: Domestic Dominance to International & IPL Stardom
Rajat’s domestic career took off with Madhya Pradesh. He debuted in first-class (Ranji Trophy) in 2015, smashing centuries quickly – including the fifth-fastest Ranji hundred (68 balls vs Haryana). In limited-overs, he shone brightly, leading MP in tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024-25 (runners-up) and the Vijay Hazare.
His IPL breakthrough came in 2021 with RCB (bought for ₹20 lakh). After going unsold in 2022 auctions, he joined as a replacement and stunned with an unbeaten 112 off 54 vs LSG in the playoffs – first uncapped player to score an IPL playoff century.
Retained for ₹11 crore pre-2025 mega auction, Rajat was named RCB captain in February 2025, succeeding Faf du Plessis. Under him, RCB won IPL 2025, beating Punjab Kings in the final. He also captained Central Zone to Duleep Trophy glory that year. Internationally, he debuted in Tests (2024 vs England) and ODIs.
A minor finger injury in early 2026 sidelined him briefly, but he’s back strong for the ongoing seasons.
Rajat Patidar’s Quiet Love Story: Postponed Wedding & Wife Gunjan Patidar Rumours
Rajat is fiercely private about romance, but reports reveal a heartwarming tale. He got engaged around 2022 to Gunjan Patidar (some sources mention Ananya Sharma, but Gunjan is widely reported). Their wedding was planned for May 2022 in Indore (hotel booked for a private ceremony with a girl from Ratlam), but postponed when RCB called him mid-IPL as a replacement.
His father shared how the family rescheduled multiple times for cricket commitments – even around Diwali slots. Rajat prioritised the game, smashing that iconic century soon after. By 2025-2026, reports confirm he’s married to Gunjan, a wellness coach/nutritionist in some accounts. He shares subtle couple photos on Instagram but keeps her face/private details hidden, focusing on cricket.
No grand revelations about their meeting or love story – it’s described as “quiet” and supportive. Gunjan stays away from the limelight, cheering silently as Rajat balances fame.
Massive Net Worth & Lifestyle: From Modest Roots to Rs 25-30 Crore Empire
As of 2026, Rajat’s estimated net worth stands at ₹25-30 crore. Key sources:
- IPL: ₹11 crore retention (2025), plus match fees/endorsements.
- BCCI contract: Grade C (₹1 crore annually).
- Domestic: MP captaincy & performances.
- Brands: Deals with bats, apparel (undisclosed but growing post-title win).
- Assets: Luxurious two-storey bungalow in Indore’s Vijay Nagar (worth ~₹6.5 crore), minimalist interiors, no flashy cars publicised.
He lives simply with family in Indore when not touring – yoga, fitness, and quiet time over parties.
Recent Updates: Injuries, Leadership Praise & 2026 Outlook
Post-IPL 2025 glory, Rajat faced minor setbacks – finger injury (Jan 2026) and team blows like Phil Salt, Tim David, and Josh Hazlewood’s hamstrings. But his calm handling earned praise from coach Andy Flower and Virat Kohli.
In 2026, he’s retained as RCB captain, eyeing defence. Domestically, he continues leading MP.
Quick Facts: Rajat Patidar Snapshot 2026
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rajat Manohar Patidar |
| Age (2026) | 32 (Born June 1, 1993) |
| Hometown | Indore, Madhya Pradesh |
| Family | Father: Manohar (businessman); Sister: Nidhi; Wife: Gunjan Patidar (rumored) |
| IPL Team/Captain | RCB (Since 2021; Captain 2025 onward) |
| Major Achievement | Led RCB to first IPL title (2025); Playoff century (2022) |
| Net Worth (Est.) | ₹25-30 crore |
| Relationship Status | Married (private; wedding postponed for IPL) |
| International Debut | Test: 2024; ODI: Pending full caps |
Rajat Patidar embodies the hard work that pays off – postponing personal milestones for professional peaks. His story inspires: Stay grounded, prioritise passion.
What do you admire most about Rajat – his captaincy or private life balance? Comment below!
 marries Drishti Joshi in a private 2023 ceremony – from Indore roots to IPL stardom){kind=link}