Kohli & Sundar Seek Blessings at Simhachalam Temple After Series Win

Updated: December 09, 2025 05:46

Image Source: NDTV

Following India’s 2-1 ODI series victory over South Africa in Vizag, Virat Kohli and Washington Sundar visited the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Simhachalam. Accompanied by family and officials, they performed rituals including the Kappasthambham Alinganam (sacred pillar embrace) and offered prayers, highlighting their spiritual gratitude after the team’s triumph.

India’s cricketing icons Virat Kohli and Washington Sundar turned to spirituality after sealing a memorable ODI series win against South Africa in Visakhapatnam. On December 7, 2025, the duo, along with family members and support staff, visited the revered Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Simhachalam, one of Andhra Pradesh’s most prominent pilgrimage sites.

Temple officials welcomed the cricketers and guided them through the rituals. Kohli was seen performing the Kappasthambham Alinganam, a traditional practice of embracing the sacred pillar before proceeding to the deity’s darshan. Sundar too joined in offering prayers, underscoring the players’ reverence for cultural traditions.

The visit came just a day after India’s commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa at the ACA–VDCA Stadium, which secured a 2-1 series win. Kohli’s presence at the temple drew large crowds of devotees and fans, many of whom captured the moment on social media.

Officials from the Andhra Cricket Association accompanied the players, ensuring smooth proceedings. The temple authorities expressed gratitude for the visit, noting that such gestures by national icons inspire faith and cultural pride among the public.

Major Takeaways

Spiritual Visit: Kohli and Sundar prayed at Simhachalam Temple after India’s ODI series win.

Traditional Rituals: Kohli performed the Kappasthambham Alinganam before darshan.

Series Context: India defeated South Africa by nine wickets on December 6, clinching the series 2-1.

Public Response: Fans and devotees gathered at the temple, celebrating the cricketers’ spiritual gesture.

Cultural Significance: The visit highlights the blending of sporting success with spiritual gratitude.

Notable Updates

Temple Honors: Officials welcomed the players and guided them through rituals.

Social Media Buzz: Images and videos of Kohli’s temple visit went viral online.

Symbolic Timing: The prayers followed immediately after India’s decisive cricketing triumph.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli and Washington Sundar’s visit to Simhachalam Temple reflects how India’s cricket stars often balance professional achievements with spiritual devotion. Coming right after a series-clinching victory, the gesture resonated with fans, reinforcing the cultural bond between sport, faith, and national pride.

Sources: OneIndia, News18, Moneycontrol, Business Standard, New Indian Express

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