“Jai Shri Ram!”: South African Spinner Keshav Maharaj Celebrates Ram Temple Consecration

South African cricketer Keshav Maharaj, known for walking onto the cricket field to the devotional tune of ‘Ram Siya Ram,’ has expressed admiration for the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The 33-year-old spinner, with roots in Uttar Pradesh, where Ayodhya is located, posted a video on social media, extending well wishes for the event led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Looking forward to the opening of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. May it bring peace and enlightenment to one and all. 🙏 @MaheshIFS pic.twitter.com/P8TGT8tteX

— Keshav Maharaj (@keshavmaharaj16) January 21, 2024

“I want to wish Mahesh Kumar (Consul General of India in Johannesburg) and the entire Indian community in South Africa all the best for the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. May it bring peace, harmony, and spiritual enlightenment to one and all,” Maharaj conveyed.

Jai Shree Raam 🙏 pic.twitter.com/4TBhsgC2th

— Keshav Maharaj (@keshavmaharaj16) January 22, 2024

In a recent interview, Maharaj shared his devotion to Lord Ram, emphasizing the significance of the devotional tune, ‘Ram Siya Ram, Jai Jai Ram,’ played when he enters the field in South Africa. The spinner believes it helps him get “into the zone” and earns respect from fellow players. Maharaj underscores the importance of respecting religion and culture in the sporting arena.

The consecration ceremony at the Ayodhya temple, where the new Ram Lalla idol was inaugurated, attracted widespread attention, with millions tuning in on television and in temples across India.