NEW DELHI: Former India captain Virat Kohli’s spokesperson has rejected as “false” and “baseless” reports that the cricketer was paid Rs 5 crore to visit spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan.
The claim was reportedly made by Dinesh Sharma, also known as Falahari Maharaj, who is associated with the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas. The allegation has not been independently verified, and no publicly available evidence confirming such a payment has emerged.
Kohli’s spokesperson said the cricketer’s visits to Premanand Maharaj were driven by his personal faith and respect for the spiritual leader.
“We strongly refute these claims and urge the media to exercise due diligence, verify facts before reporting or amplifying such statements, and report responsibly,” the spokesperson said.
Kohli and his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, have reportedly visited Premanand Maharaj’s ashram several times. Their first reported visit took place in January 2023.
The controversy comes as Kohli remains active in one-day international cricket. He recently scored 139 not out against the West Indies, becoming only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to cross 15,000 ODI runs, according to media reports.
Kohli scored 168 runs in the three-match series. India won the first two matches before losing the third by five wickets.
Kohli has retired from T20Is and Tests and is now focused on ODI cricket, with reports suggesting he could feature in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup campaign.
