Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli, accompanied by his family, and all-rounder Washington Sundar, visited the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Visakhapatnam on Sunday, drawing significant attention from devotees and fans. The visit came a day after India’s commanding victory against South Africa in the final ODI of the series. Temple authorities confirmed that the group was given a traditional and respectful welcome upon arrival.

According to temple officials, Kohli and his family were received with full ceremonial protocol and were escorted for darshan inside the ancient shrine. The group participated in the revered Kappasthambham Alinganam ritual, a customary practice where devotees embrace the sacred pillar believed to bring spiritual strength and blessings. This ritual is considered one of the highlights for pilgrims visiting the historic hilltop temple.

The cricketers then proceeded to seek blessings of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, a revered deity associated with protection and divine grace. Scholars from the temple chanted Veda Ashirvachanam, accompanied by the resonant sounds of the traditional Nadaswaram, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and devotion. Visitors and locals gathered around in admiration as the ceremony unfolded.

Also Read: Former Temple Chief Held as Sabarimala Gold Theft Probe Intensifies

Temple priests later presented Kohli, Sundar, and their families with Shesha Vasthram, the sacred cloth symbolizing divine honour and goodwill. They were also offered prasadam and a beautifully framed portrait of the deity, a customary gesture extended by the Devasthanam to esteemed visitors. Officials noted that the cricketers expressed gratitude for the warm reception and blessings.

Kohli’s visit attracted considerable public attention, especially as it came shortly after India’s impressive nine-wicket victory over South Africa at the ACA-VDCA Stadium. With this decisive win, India secured the ODI series 2–1. Fans interpreted the temple visit as a moment of thanksgiving and spiritual grounding for the star cricketer, who is known to make traditional visits before and after major tours.

The serene temple visit offered a peaceful contrast to the high-intensity match environment the players had just emerged from. For many devotees present, it was a memorable moment to witness two prominent Team India players in a humble and spiritual setting, emphasizing the cultural and personal importance of faith in their lives.

Also Read: Former Tirupati Board Chief Summoned in Probe Over Temple Offerings Counting Irregularities