The arrest of Rituparna, a die-hard Virat Kohli fan, has left his neighbors shocked. His house is filled with Kohli’s posters, jerseys, and memorabilia, showcasing years of admiration. Locals say he has followed every match, collected newspaper cuttings of Kohli’s centuries, and even stood outside TV showrooms for hours to watch him play. His obsession led him to jump over the barricade at Eden Gardens, touch Kohli’s feet, and lie on the crease before being taken away by security.
His mother, upon seeing the news of his arrest on television, broke down in tears. “Now I have only one prayer—Kohli, please forgive my son,” she said. The family remains in shock over the incident. Neighbors describe Rituparna as someone whose life revolved around Kohli, often talking about meeting him one day. Friends insist his actions were driven by admiration rather than intent to disrupt the match.
Security officials cited safety concerns as the reason for his arrest, stating that unauthorized field invasions pose a risk to players. However, the incident has sparked discussions on the extent of fan devotion and its consequences. While authorities continue legal proceedings, the emotional plea from Rituparna’s mother has drawn widespread attention.