Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli Share Private Puja, Spark Online Adoration
Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

London, UK - February 19th, 2026 - Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, arguably India's most prominent celebrity couple, sparked a wave of online adoration this week with a seemingly simple post: a photograph of themselves performing a private puja ceremony in their London residence. While celebrity displays of personal faith are not entirely new, the resonance of this moment, and a broader trend of Indian celebrities publicly embracing religious practices, warrants closer examination.
The image, shared by Anushka Sharma on Instagram, depicted the couple in traditional attire, deeply engaged in the ritual. The setting, a thoughtfully decorated corner of their London home, spoke to a conscious effort to maintain cultural ties despite their international lifestyle. The post quickly went viral, racking up hundreds of thousands of likes and comments within hours, cementing its status as a trending topic across multiple social media platforms.
Beyond the immediate fan excitement, the event reveals a significant shift in how Indian celebrities approach the public perception of their spirituality. For years, many Indian stars shied away from openly displaying religious practices, perhaps fearing judgment or attempts to categorize them. However, the past few years have witnessed a growing number of celebrities, not just actors and cricketers but also musicians and business leaders, increasingly sharing their faith journeys online.
Several factors appear to be contributing to this trend. Firstly, a broader societal acceptance of diverse belief systems in India has created a more conducive environment for public displays of faith. Secondly, the rise of social media provides a direct channel for celebrities to connect with their fans on a more personal level, sharing aspects of their lives - including their spirituality - without the filter of traditional media. This creates a sense of authenticity and relatability that resonates with audiences.
Furthermore, in a world often characterized by rapid change and uncertainty, religious and spiritual practices offer a sense of grounding and stability. The pandemic, in particular, seems to have prompted many individuals, including celebrities, to turn inwards and reconnect with their faith. The stresses of maintaining a high-profile career, coupled with the pressures of constant public scrutiny, may also drive the need for personal rituals and spiritual anchors.
Interestingly, the choice of a puja ceremony is significant. Pujas are deeply ingrained in Hindu tradition, representing a form of worship, thanksgiving, and seeking blessings. By choosing to perform this ritual, Sharma and Kohli are not only expressing their individual faith but also subtly reinforcing their connection to their cultural heritage. This resonates powerfully with a large segment of their fanbase, particularly in India, where religion and tradition remain integral to daily life.
The couple's approach, however, isn't about ostentatious displays of piety. It's a quiet, intimate moment shared with their followers, a glimpse into their private world. This contrasts sharply with some earlier instances of celebrity religious endorsements which were perceived as performative or driven by commercial interests. Sharma and Kohli's approach feels genuine and personal.
The impact extends beyond social media likes and comments. Experts in branding and public relations suggest that embracing spirituality can enhance a celebrity's image, portraying them as well-rounded individuals with strong values. It humanizes them and fosters a deeper connection with their audience. However, it's a delicate balance; authenticity is key, and any perception of insincerity can quickly backfire.
As more Indian celebrities continue to openly embrace their faith, it will be fascinating to observe how this trend evolves. Will it become a mainstream phenomenon, or will it remain a personal choice for those who feel a strong connection to their spirituality? For now, Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli's London puja serves as a compelling example of a growing cultural shift, reflecting a renewed emphasis on faith and tradition in the lives of India's most celebrated personalities.
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