In the world of Indian celebrity, few couples command as much attention as Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma. While the pair often trends for their fashion or cricket milestones, a recent video from Mumbai International Airport (T2) has captured a much more personal and traditional side of their lives.
The footage, which began circulating in late December 2025 and saw a massive resurgence in April 2026, shows Anushka Sharma leaning down to touch the feet of an elderly gentleman in a heartwarming display of humility. But as with all viral moments, the incident has sparked a mixture of deep admiration and sharp public debate.
When and Where: The Scene at Mumbai Airport
The incident occurred as the couple returned to Mumbai after a high-profile spiritual journey. They were spotted exiting the arrivals terminal, guarded by their security detail, while a crowd of paparazzi and fans waited outside.
The timing is significant. The couple had just returned from Vrindavan, where they visited the ashram of the revered spiritual guru, Premanand Ji Maharaj. For the unversed, Virat Kohli and Anushka have become frequent visitors to the Shri Hit Radha Keli Kunj, seeking spiritual guidance and participating in Ekantik Vartalaap (private spiritual conversations) with the seer.
The Identity of the “Old Man”
While initial social media rumors speculated that the man was a random elder or a fan, he is actually a close family elder and a long-time spiritual associate of the family. He has been a silent presence in many of the couple’s private spiritual outings over the last year.
In the viral clip, as they prepared to enter their vehicle, Anushka paused to perform the Charan Sparsh (touching of the feet), the highest form of respect in Indian culture. This gesture is traditionally done to seek blessings from elders, especially after completing a pilgrimage or visiting a holy site.
Also, the way Virat was smiling and signaling seemed like it was his family member, and he did not touch his feet.
The Viral Controversy: A Moment of Mixed Reactions
Who is this person whose feet Anushka Sharma is touching to seek blessings? pic.twitter.com/uuOtrKyOF5
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) April 20, 2026
Despite the praise for Anushka’s “Sanskaar” (traditional values), the airport sighting wasn’t without its share of drama. The same video that captured the respectful gesture also showed a chaotic moment where the couple appeared to move past a differently-abled fan who was waiting for a selfie.
- The Criticism: Netizens were quick to point out the irony, with some asking, “What is the point of visiting a spiritual guru if you cannot stop for a fan in need?”
- The Defense: On the other hand, supporters argued that the couple was dealing with an aggressive crowd and focused on the safety of their children (Vamika and Akaay) and the elderly companion they were escorting.
A Spiritual Shift for “Virushka”
This incident is part of a larger trend in the lives of Kohli and Sharma. Since 2023, the couple has pivoted away from the typical Bollywood/Cricket glamour, frequently retreating to places like Rishikesh and Vrindavan.
Their recent April 2026 visit to Premanand Ji Maharaj marks their third visit in five months, signaling a deep commitment to their spiritual path. This “airport gesture” is a direct reflection of that shift, prioritizing traditional respect and private devotion over the performative nature of celebrity life.
Whether you view the video as a beautiful display of Indian culture or a chaotic celebrity exit, it highlights the intense scrutiny Virat and Anushka face daily. By touching the feet of their elder at the airport, Anushka Sharma sent a clear message: no matter how high the stardom, the roots of respect remain firm.
For fans, it remains a rare, unscripted glimpse into the values that govern the private lives of India’s most powerful couple.