Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma are well-known for their spiritual inclinations and frequent temple visits. However, their devotion recently became the center of an unexpected controversy when shocking allegations surfaced regarding their visits to Premanand Maharaj’s Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan.
Following claims that the cricketing icon received a massive sum of money for his first visit to the spiritual leader, Kohli’s team has stepped in to aggressively shut down the rumors.
Here is a complete, detailed breakdown of the controversy, the ₹5 crore allegation, and the official response from Virat Kohli’s team.
The ₹5 Crore Allegation
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma made their first notable visit to Premanand Maharaj’s ashram on January 4, 2023. Since then, the couple has been spotted making multiple trips to seek the spiritual leader’s blessings.
The controversy erupted recently when an individual named Falahari Maharaj Dinesh Sharma publicly alleged that Virat Kohli was paid a staggering ₹5 crore to make his highly publicized first visit to the Vrindavan ashram in 2023. The claim quickly gained traction on social media, leading to widespread debates among fans and the public regarding the commercialization of celebrity temple visits.
Virat Kohli’s Team Fires Back
Unwilling to let the rumors tarnish the couple’s religious faith, Virat Kohli’s spokesperson issued a strong and unequivocal denial on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Shutting down the claims, the official statement read: “We would like to categorically state that the claims made by Falahari Maharaj Dinesh Sharma in regards to Mr. Virat Kohli are completely false, baseless and factually incorrect”.
The spokesperson further clarified that the couple’s multiple trips to the ashram are driven entirely by “deep faith and reverence for Maharaj Ji”. Urging responsible journalism, the statement added, “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 Spiritual Connection and Ongoing Devotion
Kohli’s connection to Premanand Maharaj’s ashram has remained a constant source of peace for the cricketer through massive career transitions, including his T20I exit and his Test retirement in 2025. The couple’s most recently reported visit took place in July 2026, underlining their ongoing dedication to the ashram.
The unwanted spotlight on Kohli’s visits comes at a turbulent time for the Radha Keli Kunj Ashram itself. The spiritual center has recently been in the headlines and under police investigation following the tragic death of one of its disciples, Rasik Dulari, who died after a fatal fall from the ashram’s fourth floor on September 25.
With the official denial issued, Kohli’s team hopes to put an end to the manufactured controversy surrounding the cricketer’s private religious practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Did Virat Kohli take ₹5 crore to visit Premanand Maharaj’s ashram?
No. Virat Kohli’s spokesperson has categorically denied the allegations, calling the ₹5 crore claim completely false, baseless, and factually incorrect.
Who made the allegations against Virat Kohli?
The allegation was made by Falahari Maharaj Dinesh Sharma, who claimed that the cricketer was paid for his first visit to the ashram in January 2023.
Which ashram do Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma visit?
The couple regularly visits the Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, to seek blessings from spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj.
When did Virat and Anushka first visit the ashram?
Their first widely reported visit to Premanand Maharaj’s ashram took place on January 4, 2023.
