Indian cricket star Virat Kohli and Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma have found themselves at the centre of a social media storm following a viral video from their arrival at Mumbai airport. The clip, which has sparked widespread outrage, shows the couple allegedly ignoring a specially-abled young fan who approached them for a photograph.
Spiritual Visit Followed by Airport Controversy
The incident occurred shortly after the high-profile couple returned from a spiritual visit to Premanand Ji Maharaj’s ashram, Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj at Varah Ghat. Videos of their visit to seek spiritual guidance had earlier circulated online, earning them praise for openly sharing their spiritual journey. However, the mood shifted dramatically upon their arrival in Mumbai.
In the now-viral footage, Kohli and Sharma are seen walking through an airport terminal towards their waiting car. A young boy, identified by social media users as being differently abled, is seen approaching the cricketer, seemingly with a request for a picture. Kohli is seen keeping his gaze forward and continuing to walk without stopping or acknowledging the fan's presence. Anushka Sharma is also seen in the frame, following alongside.
Netizens React with Anger and Disappointment
The video quickly escalated from a routine airport sighting to a major topic of debate once users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram began reacting. The timing of the incident, coming right after their highly-publicised spiritual retreat, drew particular ire.
Fans and critics alike expressed visible disappointment, accusing the couple of hypocrisy and insensitivity. Many comments highlighted the contrast between their spiritual pursuits and their perceived behaviour towards a vulnerable admirer.
Key criticisms from social media included:
- Accusations of hypocrisy for seeking spiritual guidance but displaying a lack of basic courtesy.
- Questions about the couple's ego and attitude, despite their visit to the ashram.
- Heartfelt reactions for the ignored fan, with many calling the act "heartbreaking."
One user commented, "Go for spiritual trips but behave badly with someone who’s handicapped," capturing the sentiment of many. Another wrote, "Disgusting behaviour… so much for being spiritual and vinamra (humble)."
The Fallout and Public Perception
Anushka Sharma was equally drawn into the criticism, with several comments questioning the couple's collective conduct. A pointed remark read, "What is the point of visiting Premanand Ji if one continues to carry so much ego and attitude even after leaving that place?"
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about celebrity responsibility and the expectations placed on public figures, especially those who publicly align themselves with values of humility and spirituality. The couple has not issued any public statement regarding the viral video or the ensuing backlash at the time of writing.
This episode serves as a reminder of how quickly public perception can shift, turning praise for spiritual openness into condemnation for perceived everyday incivility, all under the unforgiving lens of social media.
