Mumbai, October 2024 – After India’s disappointing loss to New Zealand in the 1st Test, Indian cricket team’s former captain Virat Kohli and his wife, Bollywood star Anushka Sharma, were spotted attending a Krishna Das kirtan in Mumbai. The couple, who have always maintained a connection with spirituality and mindfulness, chose to seek solace and rejuvenation amidst the healing chants and spiritual energy of the renowned kirtan artist Krishna Das.
A Spiritual Sojourn Amidst Challenges
India’s defeat to New Zealand in the 1st Test, which took place in Kanpur, came as a surprise to many cricket fans. As the national team faced criticism and scrutiny, especially given Kohli’s significant stature in Indian cricket, it is unsurprising that the sportsman sought comfort beyond the field. Kohli, known for his fiery temperament on the pitch, has been open about his journey with mindfulness and spirituality over the years. His spiritual leanings have been further bolstered by his wife, Anushka Sharma, who has often spoken about the importance of meditation and grounding practices in her own life.
For the couple, attending a Krishna Das kirtan was a way to reconnect with inner peace amid the external pressure. Krishna Das, often referred to as the “Rock Star of Yoga,” is an internationally acclaimed kirtan singer known for blending traditional Hindu chants with modern melodies. His live performances are known to create an atmosphere of deep spiritual connection, drawing large crowds of devoted listeners.
The kirtan, held at a renowned venue in South Mumbai, saw an intimate yet eclectic gathering of people, including celebrities, spiritual enthusiasts, and yogis. The couple was seen sitting quietly among the crowd, participating in the chanting and soaking in the meditative atmosphere.
Embracing Spirituality Together
Kohli and Sharma’s public connection to spirituality has deepened over the years. The couple often embarks on pilgrimages, such as their visits to temples and ashrams across India. In January 2023, they were spotted at Rishikesh’s Swami Dayanand Ashram, where they performed rituals and sought blessings. The same year, they also visited the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, immersing themselves in religious rituals.
Anushka has frequently spoken about how meditation and spirituality have transformed her life, particularly in dealing with the pressures of stardom. Kohli, in multiple interviews, has credited yoga and meditation for keeping him grounded and focused during his cricketing career. In fact, both have shared that their mutual inclination towards these practices has strengthened their bond.
In an interview earlier this year, Kohli shared, “I’ve realized the importance of staying calm, especially in high-pressure situations. Cricket is one part of life, but connecting with my inner self through meditation has given me a different perspective. Anushka and I both believe that spirituality helps us stay balanced.”
A Balance Between Fame and Spirituality
For celebrities like Virat and Anushka, whose lives are constantly under public scrutiny, maintaining mental balance is essential. Attending a Krishna Das kirtan offered them a momentary escape from the demanding spotlight, while simultaneously allowing them to reconnect with their inner selves.
Anushka, who has been busy with her upcoming film projects, recently spoke about how she finds solace in spirituality amidst the chaos of her profession. She often uses her social media platforms to promote mindfulness and meditation. Fans have also noted how the actress has shifted towards more introspective and spiritually-driven content, reflecting her personal journey.
On the other hand, Kohli, who has transitioned from being captain of the Indian cricket team to a more senior role within the squad, continues to face intense expectations. Despite stepping down from leadership, Kohli remains the focal point of India’s cricketing hopes. The loss to New Zealand was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of sports, but Kohli’s participation in such a spiritual gathering indicates his evolving approach to handling failure and external criticism.
The Significance of Krishna Das
Krishna Das has a deep following, both in India and globally, for his soul-stirring music that blends ancient Hindu mantras with Western melodies. His kirtans are not just musical performances but spiritual experiences that allow attendees to meditate through music. Krishna Das, who has been leading kirtans for over two decades, often speaks about the power of devotion (bhakti) and how chanting can transform emotional turmoil into peace.
For Kohli and Sharma, attending such an event likely allowed them to disconnect from the intensity of their public roles and focus on their personal spiritual growth.
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s attendance at Krishna Das’s kirtan in Mumbai is not just a reflection of their search for peace after India’s defeat but a testament to their deepening spiritual journey. As the couple continues to navigate the pressures of their respective careers, their grounding in spirituality offers them a balanced perspective, helping them cope with the highs and lows of fame, fortune, and competition.