In a display of spiritual reverence, the players of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) embarked on a soul-stirring journey to the famed Ram temple in Ayodhya on Thursday.
Led by their coach Justin Langer, the team marveled at the serene atmosphere of the temple, devoting 45 minutes to prayer and introspection.
Following the visit, South African spinner Keshav Maharaj expressed his profound emotions, remarking, “As I entered the Ram temple, I was engulfed by an overwhelming sense of energy. Being a devotee of Lord Ram, it is an honour to visit the Lord’s birthplace and seek his divine blessings. I feel immensely fortunate for this opportunity.”
Maharaj’s deep-rooted reverence for Lord Ram has been well-documented, with reports highlighting his special connection with the deity during cricketing tours in South Africa.
Witnesses recall the uplifting strains of the ‘Jai Sri Ram’ tune echoing whenever Maharaj steps onto the pitch, symbolising his profound spiritual bond.
The journey to Ayodhya commenced early in the morning, with the LSG players setting off from Lucknow’s Taj Hotel at 8 am by a bus. After a journey of 120 km lasting 2 hours and 45 minutes, the team arrived in Ayodhya at 10:45 am to a warm welcome from Ram Lalla temple’s priest Santosh Das, who applied the traditional tilak on their foreheads.
Langer expressed his enthusiasm for the spiritual expedition, stating, “The team is excited about this journey of spiritual enrichment. Seeking blessings from Ram Lalla, we have garnered renewed positivity and energy to face the challenges ahead.”
With their spirits uplifted and hearts filled with divine grace, the LSG players are now gearing up for their inaugural match against the Rajasthan Royals on March 24 in Jaipur.