Virat Kohli has strongly rejected allegations that money was paid for him to visit the ashram of spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj in Vrindavan.
A statement issued by the cricketer’s spokesperson described the claims as “completely false, baseless and factually incorrect.” The allegations were made by Falahari Maharaj, president of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas, who suggested that Rs 5 crore had been paid to bring Kohli to the ashram as part of efforts to boost the spiritual leader’s popularity.
Kohli’s team clarified that the former India captain visits Premanand Maharaj purely out of deep faith and reverence. The statement urged media outlets to verify facts carefully and report responsibly before amplifying such claims.
Kohli and his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, are regular visitors to the Radha Keli Kunj Ashram. Their first notable visit took place on January 4, 2023, and they have made multiple trips since. The visits have continued even after Kohli stepped away from T20 international cricket.
The claims emerged amid a controversy surrounding the ashram following the death of a disciple, Rasik Dulari, who fell from the fourth floor of the premises on September 25. Mathura police are investigating the circumstances of the death, including whether the disciple was under any mental stress. Officers have recorded statements from 85 people and are examining digital evidence such as call records and chats from the days leading up to the incident.
No evidence has been found to support the assertion that Kohli or Anushka Sharma received any payment in connection with their visits to the ashram.
