Ujjain’s Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas, welcomed a special devotee on Sunday: Yastika Bhatia, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter of the Indian women’s cricket team. Accompanied by her family, Bhatia offered prayers and joined the revered bhasma aarti, creating waves on social platforms.
Footage going viral shows the young star in a trance-like state of devotion, surrounded by kin as the temple’s rituals unfolded. Post-darshan, interactions with priests culminated in heartfelt blessings and the gift of a ‘Jai Shri Ram’ chunari, symbolizing divine protection for her endeavors.
‘Mahakal’s abode is breathtakingly magnificent,’ Bhatia expressed post-visit. ‘Baba summoned us, and the darshan was blissful. The aarti’s damru vibrations filled my being with utter satisfaction. Such moments rejuvenate the spirit like nothing else.’ Her commendation extended to the temple’s efficient operations.
Baroda’s finest, 25-year-old Bhatia broke into the international scene swiftly. Her debuts—ODI in September 2021, Test shortly after, T20I in October—marked the start of a solid career. She boasts 98 Test runs (with a 50), 666 ODI runs (four 50s), and 214 T20I runs.
Though sidelined from the national team recently—last match versus New Zealand in late October 2024—Bhatia shines in leagues. A WPL veteran with Gujarat Giants and Mumbai Indians, she has also represented Melbourne Stars in WBBL, showcasing her global appeal.
This pilgrimage not only highlights her rooted spirituality but also reminds cricket enthusiasts of the human side of their idols, blending faith and sport seamlessly.
