A team representing Kohli has denied the claims, asserting his devotion to Maharaj is the sole reason for the trips, according to multiple reports on October 6 and 7, 2026.
Allegations of a ₹5 Crore Payment
The allegations first emerged from Dinesh Sharma, president of the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas, who claimed a Rajasthan-based private company paid Kohli ₹5 crore to visit the ashram to increase the popularity of Premanand Maharaj, according to reports. The allegation surfaced amid existing controversy surrounding Premanand Maharaj’s ashram.
Kohli’s Team Denies the Claims
Kohli’s team swiftly refuted the allegations, labeling them “baseless.” The team urged the media to exercise caution and verify facts before reporting on the matter.
Kohli’s Previous Visits to the Ashram
Virat Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, first visited Premanand Maharaj in Vrindavan in January 2023, accompanied by their daughter Vamika. Photos and videos from these meetings circulated widely on social media at the time.
The Context: Controversy Surrounding the Ashram
The allegations emerged against a backdrop of separate controversy surrounding the ashram. Rasik Dulari Sharan, also known as Deepak Lodhi, a disciple of Maharaj, died on September 25, 2026, after falling from the fourth floor of a building in Vrindavan. Police are currently investigating the circumstances of his death. This incident brought increased scrutiny to the ashram and fueled the circulation of the claims about Kohli.
No Evidence of Payment Found
Despite the allegations, no independently verified evidence has emerged to support the claim that Kohli received ₹5 crore for his visits. Neither a verifiable bank transaction, a contract, nor an official acknowledgment of payment has been presented to substantiate the assertion. As of October 6, 2026, there is no confirmation that Kohli personally received the funds.
Virat Kohli’s team spokesperson said that Virat Kohli is visiting the ashram solely due to his deep devotion and faith in Premanand Maharaj. There is absolutely no truth to these allegations.
The claim that a private company from Rajasthan offered or spent ₹5 crore to bring Kohli to the ashram, with the aim of promoting Premanand Maharaj, originated with Falahari Maharaj. However, authorities have not confirmed this claim as a verified transaction.
Spiritual Visits and Maharaj’s Teachings
During their visits, Premanand Maharaj reportedly shared spiritual guidance with Kohli and Sharma. He advised them to view their actions as service, practice humility, and constantly remember God. Maharaj stressed that inner peace is more important than worldly recognition. He urged them to prioritize spirituality, even in a non-religious life.
Ongoing Investigation into Disciple’s Death
The cricketer has not yet reacted to the allegations. The investigation into the death of his disciple does not prove Kohli’s alleged payment.