In a candid conversation that has captivated cricket fans and spiritual enthusiasts alike, Indian cricket legends Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli opened up about the profound impact of spirituality on their illustrious careers. The duo shared personal anecdotes about how reciting the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ and chanting ‘Om Namah Shivay’ provided them with strength and focus during some of their most challenging moments on the field.
SOURCE : ZEE
During a special interview organized by the BCCI ahead of the India vs Bangladesh Test series, Gambhir and Kohli delved into their spiritual practices and how these rituals have helped them navigate the pressures of international cricket. Despite their aggressive personas on the field, both players revealed a deeply spiritual side that has often guided them through tough times.
Source:- bbc news
Gautam Gambhir’s Hanuman Chalisa Moment
Gautam Gambhir, now the head coach of the Indian cricket team, recounted a particularly testing phase during a Test match against New Zealand in Napier over a decade ago. Battling to save the match, Gambhir turned to the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ for solace and strength. He batted for nearly two and a half days, facing 436 balls and scoring a gritty 136 runs. Gambhir credits the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’ for helping him maintain his concentration and resolve during this marathon innings
“I don’t think I could have ever done that again. The only thing I did for those two-and-a-half days was listen to the ‘Hanuman Chalisa’,” Gambhir shared, highlighting the spiritual practice that kept him grounded and focused
Virat Kohli, one of the most prolific batsmen in modern cricket, also shared his spiritual journey. During his remarkable series in Australia in 2014, where he scored four Test centuries, Kohli found solace in chanting ‘Om Namah Shivay’. This mantra, dedicated to Lord Shiva, helped him stay calm and centered amidst the intense competition.
“Instead of talking about me, I remember when you had that bumper series in Australia, where you scored heaps and heaps of runs, you were telling me that you kept saying ‘Om Namah Shivay’ before every delivery. And that got you in that zone,” Gambhir recalled during the interview, with Kohli nodding in agreement
The conversation between Gambhir and Kohli sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of spirituality in sports. For many athletes, faith and spiritual practices are integral to their mental and emotional well-being. These rituals provide a sense of stability and purpose, helping them cope with the immense pressures of professional sports.
Both Gambhir and Kohli emphasized that their spiritual practices are not just about seeking divine intervention for success but about finding inner peace and strength. Their stories resonate with many fans who look up to them not only for their cricketing prowess but also for their ability to stay grounded and humble despite their fame and success.
As the cricketing world gears up for the India vs Bangladesh Test series, the insights shared by Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli offer a refreshing perspective on the role of spirituality in sports. Their experiences underscore the importance of mental and emotional resilience, reminding us that even the greatest athletes rely on faith and inner strength to achieve their goals.
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