New Delhi, India, December 31, 2025
Prominent spiritual leader and kathavachak Devkinandan Thakur has publicly criticized Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for acquiring Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman in the IPL 2026 auction, linking the decision to ongoing reports of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh.
During a recent religious discourse, Thakur questioned the inclusion of Bangladeshi players in the IPL while expressing concern over reported attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh in December 2025. A video clip of his remarks has gone viral on social media platforms.
KKR secured Mustafizur Rahman for ₹9.20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction held earlier this month, making him the most expensive Bangladeshi player in IPL history and the only one from the country signed for the upcoming season.
In his address, Thakur, without directly naming KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, referred to the team’s owner as someone residing in Mumbai with alleged affinity toward Pakistan. He stated: “We investigated which IPL teams have Bangladeshi players. It turned out one team bought a Bangladeshi cricketer… The owner lives in Mumbai. We’ve heard he has great love for those who cause pain to Hindus.”
Thakur urged KKR to immediately release the player, warning: “If you have sorrow for Hindus dying and love for India… then Mr. KKR, remove that Bangladeshi player at once. If he remains in your team, we will be forced to boycott your team.”
He further questioned the destination of the ₹9.20 crore payment, asking if it would indirectly support activities amid the reported violence. Concluding emphatically, Thakur said: “If KKR does not cancel the player’s contract, there will be a big upheaval.”
Reports from Bangladesh in December 2025 have documented incidents of riots, arson, and attacks targeting minorities, including Hindus, following political unrest. Indian media and official statements have expressed concern over these developments.
KKR and the player’s management have not issued an official response to the criticism as of now.
