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Once known for his fiery temper, bold tattoos, and on-field aggression, Virat Kohli has undergone a remarkable personal transformation in recent years. A large part of that shift seems to have come after his marriage to Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma in 2017. The cricketer, who once scoffed at the idea of spiritual rituals in public interviews, is now frequently seen engaging in temple visits and spiritual retreats alongside his wife. Their recent visit to Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir and Hanuman Garhi has once again drawn attention to Kohli’s evolving outlook on life and his deepening interest in spirituality.
Ayodhya Visit: A Spiritual Sojourn with Family
Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, accompanied by their family, recently visited the sacred city of Ayodhya. Photos and videos of the couple offering prayers at the Ram Mandir and Hanuman Garhi have gone viral on social media. The visit was facilitated by senior priest Hemant Das, and the couple also met Sanjay Dutt, successor to Mahant Gyan Das and president of the Sankat Mochan Sena. Dressed in traditional attire and performing rituals with sincerity, the couple’s presence was warmly received by devotees.
The Viral Throwback: "Do I Look Like the Pooja-Path Type?"
In a surprising contrast, an old video of Kohli from 2016 has resurfaced. During a press conference at the T20 World Cup, a journalist asked Kohli if he indulged in spiritual practices to stay calm under pressure. Kohli jokingly responded, “Do I look like the pooja-path types?”, sparking laughter in the room. Back then, he was the stylish, high-octane vice-captain known more for aggression than introspection.
Transformation Through Marriage and Parenthood
Over the years, especially after marrying Anushka, Kohli’s public persona has mellowed. He’s spoken more openly about mindfulness, mental health, and finding balance beyond cricket. The couple's spiritual journey includes visits to Vrindavan, where they recently sought blessings from Premanand Maharaj. These spiritual leanings have become more frequent, particularly since the birth of their daughter Vamika and son Akaay.
A Changed Man On and Off the Field
From laughing off spirituality to actively embracing it, Virat Kohli’s journey reflects not just personal maturity but a broader transformation shaped by love, family, and deeper self-awareness. While he remains a fierce competitor on the pitch, Kohli off the field is increasingly grounded in values of peace, gratitude, and faith—proof that even the boldest personalities can find solace in spiritual paths.
