Harbhajan Singh Defends Team India’s Faith After Kirti Azad Criticism

Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has strongly responded to criticism from ex-cricketer and politician Kirti Azad over the Indian team taking the ICC Men's T20 World Cup trophy to a temple during the post-victory celebrations.

The debate began after Kirti Azad questioned the decision on social media, asking why the team chose only a temple when the Indian squad represents players from multiple religions. He suggested that the trophy, which symbolises the pride of the entire nation, could also have been taken to places of worship of other faiths.

Harbhajan Singh reacted sharply to the remarks, accusing Azad of unnecessarily politicising the moment. According to Harbhajan Singh, players have every right to follow their faith and should not be criticised for expressing their beliefs.

"It is absurd to play politics over this. The Indian team can take the trophy to a temple, mosque, church or anywhere they want," Harbhajan Singh said while responding to the controversy. He added that if players had prayed for success and later returned to their place of worship after their wish was fulfilled, there was nothing wrong with that.

Harbhajan Singh also expressed disappointment that such comments were coming from a fellow cricketer. He said the country should be celebrating the World Cup victory rather than turning the discussion into a political debate. Emphasising unity, he added that while religions may differ, the path of faith ultimately leads to the same place.

The row surfaced even as the Board of Control for Cricket in India announced a ₹131 crore reward for the Indian team following their T20 World Cup triumph.

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan was also asked about Kirti Azad's remarks after arriving at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport in Patna. Kishan avoided commenting on the issue and urged reporters to focus on the team's World Cup success instead.

The exchange between Harbhajan Singh and Kirti Azad has since triggered a wider conversation online, even as many fans continue celebrating India's latest global cricket triumph.