Virat Kohli, despite not playing in India’s second T20I against South Africa, captured social media attention with his recent activity. Kohli, who had requested a break during the white-ball series against South Africa, is set to return to action in the upcoming Test series. In a surprising move, the former India skipper posted a photo on Instagram featuring himself eating ‘mock chicken tikka.’ Known for his decision to give up non-vegetarian food due to a cervical spine issue, Kohli’s post left fans intrigued and quickly went viral. The term ‘mock chicken’ indicates a vegetarian alternative to the traditional non-vegetarian dish.
Virat Kohli’s recent Instagram post featuring ‘mock chicken tikka’ led to a mix of reactions from fans. Some criticized and slammed him, feeling that he had misled them over the years regarding his dietary choices. However, the realization dawned on many that the ‘chicken tikka’ Kohli was consuming was not animal-based but a vegetarian alternative. Unlike the traditional ‘Chicken Tikka’ made from poultry, the mock version is crafted from soy, providing a plant-based option for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
In 2020, Virat Kohli disclosed the reason behind his decision to give up non-vegetarian food, citing fitness concerns. The star Indian batsman revealed that he faced health issues related to his diet, leading to the decision to eliminate meat. Kohli’s body was producing excessive uric acid, resulting in weakened bones.
During an Instagram Live session in 2020, Kohli shared his health journey: “Left eating meat just before the England Test series. In 2018, when we went to South Africa, I had a cervical spine issue… It gave me a tingling sensation… I could barely feel my little finger… My stomach started pulling calcium from my bones… That is why I stopped eating meat completely in the middle of the England tour to cut down the uric acid, and I have never felt better in my life, to be honest.” The dietary change aimed to address the acidity issues in Kohli’s stomach and improve overall health.
