Virat Kohli’s Insta account returns after brief blackout; fans rejoice after overnight outrage

After hours of confusion, concern and meme-fuelled speculation, batting icon Virat Kohli’s Instagram account was restored on Friday, much to the relief of millions of fans.

India’s most-followed Instagram profile had briefly vanished earlier in the day, sparking widespread chatter and anxiety online.

The account reappeared without any official explanation from the former India captain or the platform, putting an end to fears that something was amiss.

Users attempting to visit Kohli’s verified handle were met with an error message stating that the page was unavailable. The unexpected development quickly triggered a wave of speculation, especially given Kohli’s massive global following and his reputation as one of the most active athletes on social media. His Instagram presence, known for blending cricket updates, brand collaborations, fitness routines, and family moments, has long been a key connection point with fans.

Within minutes of the account vanishing, hashtags related to Kohli began trending across platforms. Supporters flooded X and fan forums with screenshots and theories, ranging from a possible voluntary break from social media to a technical issue on Instagram’s end. Some even speculated about a hacking incident, though there has been no evidence to support such claims.

As of now, neither Kohli nor his management team has issued an official statement addressing the situation. Instagram has also not released any clarification regarding whether the account was removed due to a policy issue or if the disappearance is linked to a platform glitch.

Kohli, one of cricket’s most recognisable figures worldwide, commands one of the largest followings among athletes globally. His digital influence extends far beyond the cricket field, making the sudden absence of his account all the more noticeable.

Until an official explanation emerges, the mystery continues to dominate online conversations, with fans eagerly waiting for the beloved cricketer — or Instagram — to break the silence.

Picture Courtesy: IANS