Gautam Gambhir at Kalighat Temple, Kolkata (Source:@CricCrazyJohns,x.com)
As India gears up for a white-ball contest against England, starting with the T20I series in Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Wednesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir has once again visited a prominent temple ahead of the series. This time he paid a visit to the famous Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, a gesture that has become a part of his pre-series routine. Gambhir has regularly sought divine blessings before crucial series, with his temple visits becoming a well-known tradition.
In this article, let's take a look at three occasions where the former Indian cricketer visited temples ahead of series in recent time.
1. Gambhir Seeks Divine Blessings At Kolkata
In a bid to reverse the fortunes of Team India following a string of poor results in recent months, head coach Gautam Gambhir has turned to spirituality, offering prayers at the Kalighat Temple in Kolkata on January 21, 2025. This comes just ahead of the much-anticipated first match of the five-match T20I series against England, which will be played at the iconic Eden Gardens on Wednesday (January 22).
Following the T20I series, India will also face England in a three-match ODI series, which will further contribute to fine-tuning the squad and solidify their preparations for the Champions Trophy 2025.
2. Gautam Gambhir Visits Kamakhya Temple In Guwahati
Former India cricketer and current head coach of the Men in Blue, Gautam Gambhir, was earlier also spotted in the city of Guwahati as he visited Kamakhya Temple, one of the most significant Shakti Peethas in India in October 2024. He seeked divine blessings ahead of the India and Bangladesh two-match Test series.
The Kamakhya Temple, situated at the top Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, is one of the oldest temples in the country. Known for its association with goddess Kamakhya, it attracts devotees from all over India and beyond.
3. Gautam Gambhir Visits Maa Pitambara Temple
Ahead of the T20I series against Bangladesh, Gambhir visited the renowned Maa Pitambara Temple in Datia in October 2024. His visit coincided with the second day of the Shardiya Navratri celebrations, a festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga.
Dressed in traditional attire, the former cricketer offered his prayers at the temple and seeked the blessings of the deity for success and prosperity in the upcoming series. Gambhir was warmly welcomed by temple officials, who honored him for his visit during this auspicious occasion.