While the cricket world’s eyes were trained on the recently-concluded Cricket World Cup, they were also on the lookout for an appearance by one of the game’s greatest – MS Dhoni. Fans of the former India captain held their breath in anticipation, fueled by rumors that all former World Cup-winning captains had been invited to witness the India-Australia summit clash. Unfortunately, Dhoni was conspicuously absent from the event. As it turns out, the World Cup wasn’t on Dhoni’s itinerary. Instead, he chose a more personal pilgrimage, visiting his ancestral village in Uttarakhand’s Almora district alongside his wife Sakshi Singh Dhoni.
Post the World Cup, where India faced a bitter loss to Australia in the final, Dhoni switched gears to spend quality time with familiar faces from his cricketing journey. In what can be called a reunion of sorts, he and Sakshi hosted Dhoni’s old comrade from both the Indian national side and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Suresh Raina, for dinner. Raina took to Instagram to express his gratitude for the couple’s hospitality. “Thank you so much for the great dinner @sakshisingh_r & @mahi7781 bhai,” he penned, sharing a snapshot from their evening together.
The dinner invitations did not stop with Raina. Pragyan Ojha, a former India spinner and teammate, was also treated to Dhoni’s warm hospitality. Ojha echoed Raina’s sentiments on Instagram: “Thank you Mahi bhai… for having me over for dinner! God bless you and family.”
These small gatherings have stirred much cheer among fans who have been following their favorite cricketer’s movements post his retirement from international cricket. Recent posts on social media added even more delight, offering a rare glimpse into Dhoni’s personal life, which he usually keeps guarded from the public eye. Sakshi recently shared an endearing photo of the couple posing at Almora’s Lwali village, rousing excitement among fans eager to see the icon in a candid setting.
Adding to the charm was a video that surged to viral status on social media platforms, featuring Dhoni and Sakshi immersing themselves in the local culture of his hometown. In a touching display of respect and tradition, they were seen taking blessings from village elders by touching their feet – a gesture deeply embedded in Indian ethos. This simple act of humility by a global sports celebrity not only grounded his stardom but also showcased the roots that have undoubtedly contributed to his remarkable disposition as a leader and a sportsman.
This visit underlines how Dhoni, despite the glitz and glamour that came with his storied career, has remained connected to his heritage and origin. It paints a picture not just of a cricket legend, but also of a man who values his beginnings and the wisdom of those who came before him.
On the professional side of things, Indian cricket fans are coming to terms with the team’s recent World Cup loss. While the analyses and critiques of the match continue, the image of Dhoni seeking blessings in his ancestral village serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering support and blessings that the country as a whole has poured into its beloved sport and its players.
As cricket enthusiasts look ahead to the upcoming World Cup 2023, they can keep abreast of the latest updates and schedules, assured that the Indian cricket narrative is not only shaped by the individuals who adorn the blue jersey but also by the principles and values they hold dear, as exemplified by MS Dhoni’s recent heartwarming escapade.
For more such updates on cricket and to follow the journey of the Indian cricket team, one can always stay tuned to social media, or better yet, for enthusiasts who prefer their cricket updates on the go, there are dedicated cricket apps on various platforms ensuring that they never miss out on any action or heartwarming cricket anecdotes like Dhoni’s ancestral visit.