Ujjain’s iconic Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga witnessed a celebrity spiritual retreat as Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav immersed themselves in the temple’s most profound ritual. The Indian cricketers’ unannounced darshan and involvement in the Bhasm Aarti have sparked widespread admiration across the nation.
Rising before dawn, the players navigated the temple’s ancient corridors to partake in the 4 a.m. Bhasm Aarti, a ceremony steeped in tantric traditions where cremation ashes are smeared on the Shiva Lingam. Priests and fellow devotees were reportedly moved by the stars’ devotion, with Kohli leading the chants and Yadav assisting in the sacred offerings.
For Kohli, chasing 50 ODI tons and a global legacy, such visits are routine yet meaningful. Kuldeep, evolving from a T20 specialist to a key ODI asset, finds solace in these pilgrimages amid a demanding schedule. Their joint appearance symbolizes camaraderie forged on the field now extended to faith.
The temple, a UNESCO tentative site, attracts millions yearly for its self-manifested lingam and unique south-facing deity. The Bhasm Aarti, restricted to 25 participants, requires months of bookings—yet the cricketers secured spots seamlessly, fueling light-hearted debates on VIP privileges in spirituality.
Beyond the ritual, the duo spent time circumambulating the temple complex, interacting briefly with priests and offering special pujas for family and team success. Local vendors reported a surge in sales, with ‘Kohli special’ coconuts and prasad flying off shelves.
In an era where athletes chase endorsements and fitness, Kohli and Yadav’s temple run reminds us of roots. As IPL looms and international tours beckon, this divine pitstop might just be the unseen motivator propelling them to new heights. Cricket and spirituality, it seems, make a winning combination.
