Indian actress finally speaks out after Kohli likes ‘bold photos’ on Insta
MUMBAI — Indian cricket sensation Virat Kohli has become the focal point of a social media frenzy after he liked a sequence of “bold” photos on Instagram that created a furor, giving rise to endless speculation and online gossip. The episode took a new turn this week when the actress whose posts generated the heat finally spoke out.
The controversy began earlier this month when eagle-eyed fans noticed Kohli’s verified account among the likes on several of the actress’s pictures. Screenshots quickly circulated across Indian media platforms, with many debating whether the cricketer’s actions were intentional or accidental.
Though Kohli has not made any statement, the actress spoke about it in a recent interview. “It’s sad that something as silly as an Instagram like becomes front page news,” she said. “I have respect for Virat Kohli as a sportsperson and as someone who has made India proud. People should not overthink these things.”
She made the remarks following days of speculation, with mentions regarding Kohli being in trend on X (formerly Twitter). Twitter users were polarized, with some blasting the cricketer and others labeling the scandal as overblown.
Indian celebrities have to endure especially intense watchfulness over their online behavior. “In this era of screenshots and going-viral material, even a casual like can be taken out of context,” observed media commentator Ramesh Menon. “Public figures need to be careful, but fans must also differentiate between choice as an individual and careers.
Kohli, aged 36, is India’s most followed celebrity on Instagram, with over 270 million followers. His online presence has been noted before, albeit not infrequently producing public outcry by the parties concerned.The actress, who herself has acted in a number of Hindi films and has a significant fan base, underscored that the controversy was uncalled for. “As artists and sportswomen, we should be concerned with our work. I don’t believe social media likes should determine who we are,” she added.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not commented on the matter, and sources suggest the issue is being viewed as a personal one, not connected to Kohli’s professional commitments.
Despite the furore, Kohli is still an integral part of Indian cricket, looking ahead to the coming home season. For the time being, the actress’s cautious reaction seems to have placated the speculation, although the incident emphasizes the close scrutiny that attends public personalities in India’s digital era.
