Ruckus over Bangladeshi player’s entry in KKR! Shahrukh Khan came under target of religious leaders, Swami Rambhadracharya called him a ‘traitor’

Shah Rukh Khan Mustafizur Rahman IPL 2026 KKR Controversy: The political and social atmosphere of the country seems to be heating up before the Indian Premier League (IPL) to be held in March 2026. Bangladesh’s fast bowlers have become the root of controversy Mustafizur Rahmanwhich was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in mini auction for Rs 9.20 crore. After this decision, not only the team, but also its co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan have come at the center of sharp attacks. Earlier, Delhi Capitals was also criticized a lot for its inclusion in the team in IPL 2025.

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From political leaders to religious leaders, many sections Shahrukh Khan But while raising questions, they even called him a ‘traitor’. On the other hand, some senior leaders have also come out openly in support of Shahrukh.

Religious leaders raised questions on ‘character’ and ‘patriotism’

The latest statement on this issue has come from Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya and Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri. Both supported the statement of famous storyteller Devkinandan Thakur, who had expressed strong objection to the purchase of Mustafizur Rahman. Swami Rambhadracharya said, “He (Shahrukh Khan) is not a hero. Shahrukh Khan has no character. His actions have been like those of a traitor.” At the same time, Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, while referring to the situation of Hindus in Bangladesh, said, “Such incidents are happening there which are against Hindutva. The players there should raise their voice, so that Hindus can be protected and BCCI takes this issue seriously.”

Politics also face to face

The entry of politics in this controversy has become even more intense. Former Sardhana MLA Sangeet Som made a direct attack on Shahrukh Khan and said, “How can that Rehman (Mustafizur) come here? If a traitor like Shahrukh Khan buys him by paying Rs 9.5 crore, then the people of India will not tolerate it.” In response to this, former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi came to the defense of Shahrukh Khan. He said, “No one has the right to distribute certificates of patriotism. No one can become a contractor of patriotism.”

Devkinandan Thakur’s statement became the root of controversy

This entire controversy started with the statement of religious leader Devkinandan Thakur in which he had said, “The country which made you a superstar, gave you so much power that you could buy a cricket team, will you repay the debt of the same country by feeding Bangladeshi players?” His statement also got support from Maharashtra State Minority Commission Chairman Pyare Khan. Pyare Khan said, “A country where minorities are not safe cannot progress. Players from such countries should be banned. I will write a letter to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on this issue.”

Still suspense on Mustafizur Rahman’s play

Despite the worsening diplomatic situation between India and Bangladesh, there is no ban on Mustafizur Rahman playing IPL 2026 at present. BCCI has made it clear that no ban has been imposed on Bangladeshi players and the board is waiting for instructions from the government in this matter.

Mustafizur Rahman is the only Bangladeshi to be sold in IPL 2026 mini auction

It is noteworthy that Mustafizur Rahman was the only Bangladeshi player to be sold in the IPL 2026 mini auction. Since their auction, KKR has been facing tremendous opposition and criticism on social media.