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In a heartfelt turn of events, Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s modern greats, marked the end of his illustrious Test career with a spiritual journey to Vrindavan. Accompanied by his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, Kohli sought blessings from their revered spiritual guide, Premanand Maharaj, just a day after his sudden retirement announcement. The couple’s visit, captured in a now-viral video, reflects a deeply personal moment of reflection and renewal as Kohli steps away from the longest format of the game.
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s visit to Premanand Maharaj
Kohli’s decision to retire from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Having debuted in 2011, he leaves behind a legacy of 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, with 30 centuries and a record 40 wins as captain-making him India’s most successful Test skipper. Yet, the abruptness of his announcement, just ahead of a much-anticipated series against England, left fans and officials alike in disbelief. Reports suggest the BCCI had tried to persuade him to reconsider, but Kohli’s mind was made up.
The very next morning, Kohli and Anushka were seen in Vrindavan, traveling by local cab and keeping a low profile as they headed to Premanand Maharaj’s ashram. This visit was not their first; the couple has often turned to spiritual retreats during pivotal moments, seeking guidance and solace in times of transition. Their devotion to Maharaj ji’s teachings-centered on simplicity, devotion, and inner spiritual experience-has become a recurring theme in their personal lives.
Here’s the video:
Virat Kohli & Anushka Sharma से पूज्य महाराज जी की क्या वार्तालाप हुई ? Bhajan Marg pic.twitter.com/7IWWjIfJHB
— Bhajan Marg (@RadhaKeliKunj) May 13, 2025
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For Kohli, the trip to Vrindavan is more than a ritual-it’s a bridge between two worlds. The intensity and scrutiny of international cricket are a stark contrast to the tranquillity of Vrindavan’s spiritual sanctuaries. Here, in the presence of Premanand Maharaj, Kohli and Anushka embraced a moment of peace, away from the limelight, to reflect on the journey so far and the path ahead.
Anushka’s presence has been a constant source of strength for Kohli, both on and off the field. Her recent tribute highlighted not just his records, but the unseen battles and emotional resilience that defined his career. The couple’s shared spiritual pursuits underscore their commitment to grounding themselves amid life’s highs and lows.
While Kohli’s Test chapter has closed, his cricketing journey continues-he will return to action for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2025 laterthis month, with the team eyeing their maiden title. Yet, this pause in Vrindavan, marked by humility and gratitude, signals a new phase not just for Kohli the cricketer, but for Kohli the individual-one who values spiritual fulfilment as much as sporting glory.
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