New Delhi: Cricketer Virat Kohli has strongly denied claims that he was paid Rs 5 crore to visit spiritual leader Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan. Kohli’s spokesperson described the allegation as “completely false, baseless and factually incorrect” and urged the media to verify information before reporting such claims.
The allegation was reportedly made by Falahari Maharaj, also identified as Dinesh Sharma, who heads the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas. He claimed that money was allegedly paid to bring Kohli to the ashram as part of an effort to increase the spiritual leader’s popularity.
Kohli’s team rejected the claim and said that the former India captain visits Premanand Maharaj purely because of his faith and reverence. The spokesperson also stressed that there is no basis for the reported payment claim.
Virat Kohli and his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, have been regular visitors to the Radha Keli Kunj Ashram in Vrindavan. Their first widely reported visit took place on January 4, 2023, and the couple have visited the ashram several times since then.
The controversy comes at a time when the ashram is also under scrutiny following the death of a disciple, Rasik Dulari, who died after falling from the fourth floor of the premises on September 25. Mathura Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death.
Investigators are examining several aspects of the case, including the disciple’s life before joining the ashram and any changes in his behaviour afterward. Police have reportedly examined his old mobile phone, a new SIM card, call records and chats to understand who he was in contact with during his final days. Statements from around 85 people have been recorded so far.
The Rs 5 crore allegation has not been supported by any evidence establishing that Kohli or Anushka Sharma received such a payment. Kohli’s team has therefore asked media organisations and others to exercise caution and verify facts before amplifying unverified statements.
Meanwhile, Kohli is preparing for India’s home T20I series against the West Indies, with the third match scheduled to be played in Indore on Sunday.
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